One mother and her kids now have a new ride to get around in. Thanks to the generosity of one veteran's organization and some leaders in the auto industry.
Yasmine Mitchell got the keys to a car complete with a special celebration thanks to representatives from Geico, Caliber Collision, and The National Auto Body Council.
I'm not going to cry. I just want to say thank you," Mitchell told ABC2.
Mitchell is an Army veteran. A student. A single mother of three. Now, she's a new car owner.
"I got out of the military, I had a car. I paid up to $9,000 and still owed $3,000 on it. I didn't get a job right away and my car got repossessed and it hurt," said Mitchell.
But that hurt is gone.
Geico donated a Nissan Altima. Caliber Collision refurbished it.
"It's about working together to help veterans like Mitchell," said Paul Krauss, SVP of Caliber Collision.
Bill Garoutte, the president, and CEO of The National Auto Body Council said, "It's a life-altering event. The ability to have a vehicle changes their life."
Not only did it change Mitchell's life, but the lives of her three children.
"It's kind of been hard trying to save up to buy a car when I have all these other bills and kids that are growing," said Mitchell.
She and her children ages 2, 4, and 6 have been walking and riding the bus to school, classes, the doctor and for groceries. Now her car is a luxury so many take for granted.
"I'm excited to actually have a car. I'm super grateful that someone was able to give me a car. Without you guys, this would be impossible," said Mitchell.
She said the VA put her in touch with recycled rides which is part of The National Auto Body Council
They also work with the VA's Soldiers' Angels.
The NABC has already given away more than 1700 cars this year. It hopes to give away one a day!
