Jan. 26, 2018—The National Auto Body Council (NABC) awarded a single mother of six a brand new 2017 Toyota Camry at its annual golf fundraiser in Palm Spring, Calif.

Proceeds from the fundraiser support NABC’s community service programs including Recycled Rides, First Responder Emergency Extrication (FREE) and the Distracted Driving Initiative.

This past year had been challenging for the recipient, Sonya Palacio. Palacio and her family faced many challenges including being forced to leave their rental home and exhausting their modest savings living in motels. Their only car broke down during the move to temporary shelter at a friend’s guest house.

“This is overwhelming, a wonderful blessing for our family,” said Palacio, adding that the car will enable her to find stable employment as well as the opportunity to participate in her children’s school and extracurricular activities.

The Recycled Rides vehicle for the Palacio family was donated by Hertz and repaired by Ben Clymers of The Body Shop in Palm Desert. Contributions of parts, materials and services came from LKQ Corporation, PPG Automotive Refinish and I-10 Toyota in Indio, Calif.  

“It is through the generosity of so many in our collision industry that we are able to give individuals like Sonya Palacio hope for a brighter future,” said Darren Huggins, NABC chairman. “Our sincere thanks to all those who sponsored and participated in our Golf Fundraiser this year, giving us additional funds to change and save even more lives.”