Two individuals facing immense challenges -- a U.S. Army National Guard veteran and a single mother -- have received life-changing support through the National Auto Body Council Recycled Rides program. Partnering with Allstate and collision repair specialist All Magic Paint & Body of Norco, CA, the program donated restored vehicles to provide reliable transportation and a brighter future for these recipients and their families.
Sophia Heard, a Riverside, CA, resident and U.S. Army National Guard veteran, faced homelessness after a series of personal hardships. As a caregiver and single mother to a special needs child, her lack of reliable transportation limited her job prospects and her ability to access vital support programs. With bus commutes taking up to two hours each way, Heard struggled to meet her family’s needs.
The donation of a 2022 Honda Accord promises to ease those challenges. “The work you all have done on our vehicles is amazing. This looks like something brand new off the lot, and I thank you all for it,” Heard said.
Similarly, Letitia Salazar, a single mother of four from Los Angeles, endured domestic violence, losing her home and vehicle in the process. Despite these challenges, she continues to work and support her children, showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Salazar received a 2018 Toyota Camry, which will provide crucial mobility for her family. “Amazing, beautiful, she’s a beauty,” Salazar said. “Thank you all so much!”
The NABC Recycled Rides program brings together collision repair industry professionals to repair and donate vehicles to individuals in need. Since its inception in 2007, the program has facilitated the donation of more than 3,300 vehicles, valued at more than $47 million.
Additional partners in the presentation included Lobos Towing, Precise Mobile Auto Glass, Riverside County Sheriff's Office, AkzoNobel, LKQ, Advanced Remarketing Services, Cars for Charity, Copart and Enterprise.
