Joseph Brewer, a U.S. Army veteran from Fenton, MI, was recently presented with a refurbished 2019 Chevy Equinox through the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides® program, along with partners Citizens Insurance and CARSTAR Ellis Brothers Collision.
Brewer, who served honorably in the Army, is the sole provider for his family, which includes his wife and three children. The family's previous vehicle, nearly a decade old, was unreliable and inadequate for their needs, particularly for commuting to work and attending crucial medical appointments for the children. The new vehicle promises to provide the Brewers with dependable transportation, facilitating access to employment and educational opportunities.
“The No. 1 reason that we get involved in a program like the NABC Recycled Rides is to give back to our community,” said Dave Ellis, owner of CARSTAR Ellis Brothers Collision. “In this case we are giving back to a veteran, which is something near and dear to my heart. My brother is a Marine, and to all the veterans out there I just want to say -- thank you!”
The presentation, which took place at the CARSTAR Ellis Brothers location in Milford, MI, included an additional surprise from The Hanover Insurance Group and the Michigan Community Insurance agency staff. They filled the vehicle with automotive essentials and gift cards for gas and other necessities.
“I very much appreciate my car,” said Brewer. “This will help me get my wife and kids safely back and forth to work and to school. This is just phenomenal what you all have done. You guys are the real heroes!”
The NABC Recycled Rides program, since its inception in 2007, has brought together various stakeholders from the collision repair industry to donate more than 3,300 vehicles, valued at approximately $47 million, to individuals and families in need.
