When you are part of a family of seven, one vehicle can’t keep up with demand.
That’s why Kelly Sterling and Johnathan Smith of Brentwood Bay are thrilled to receive an overhauled and freshly painted 2006 Toyota Corolla, donated Monday through a joint effort of Sidney’s Superior Collision Repairs, the Sidney Lions Food Bank and dozens of other businesses.
The new-to-them car arrived packed with donations, including insurance coverage, gas cards, groceries, gift baskets, recreation centre passes, roadside assistance, hair style makeovers, entertainment packages, toys, car seats and much more.
The couple has five children, ages 13 months to 16 years. To date, they have relied on what Sterling calls a “basic vehicle.” “It needs repairs, but it gets us from point A to point B right now.”
When Smith is at work with that vehicle, Sterling walks the youngsters to their destinations and worries that going out in the cold could affect their health.
“This means a lot to our family because it will not only help us transport our kids, but it will help us get day-to-day things done quicker,” she said.
Sterling, who has been at home on medical leave, is aiming to return to work in the new year. Having a second vehicle will be a huge help in juggling the family’s needs. “We’ll be able to take some of the kids somewhere in one vehicle and some in another to another place.”
A second vehicle will also allow them to assist others in their extended family, Sterling said.
The family is thankful for car and all the support that has poured in. “We just appreciate everything that everybody has done for us,” she said.
This is the second year that Superior, based at 2104 Malaview Ave., has spearheaded the donation of a car. The car comes through to Superior via the Acoat National Benevolence Program. Superior technicians pitched in, volunteering more than 60 hours after their regular work days. The total value of parts donated came to $2,986, said Allison Peters, owner of Superior with Rob Peters.
“Every single aspect has been donated,” Allison said.
She has been “overwhelmed” by the generosity from the community. In the first year, businesses were asked for donations. “This year, people have approached us and said, ‘We want to participate.’ ”
Sue Higgs knows just what it means to have reliable transportation. Her family received a 2005 Corolla last year. She’s been looking forward to seeing this year’s family pick up their vehicle and has made a donation as well. “You’ve got to believe in that karma,” said Higgs.
Not only did she receive a car, but extras such as insurance coverage, groceries, fuel, restaurant gift certificates and passes to local attractions. “We got to go out and do family stuff. We didn’t have to worry about how much it would cost,” said Higgs.
The car is providing safe, reliable transportation and is great on gas, Higgs said. “It’s been awesome. It’s the newest car I’ve ever owned.”
The gift also resulted in health and financial benefits. Higgs quit smoking in January because no one had ever smoked in the car.
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