Local businesses partnered up to make sure a Salmon Arm mom would have a safe way to get around in the new year.
Katy Ackerman thought she was going for a morning walk at the bird sanctuary with her children Ela and Emory Beadle on Friday, Dec. 18. Instead, she was led to the uptown SASCU branch where a surprise was waiting for her.
Sponsors Kal Tire, Braby Motors, Fix Auto Collison and SASCU Financial Group were on hand to present a refurbished 2015 Chrysler 200, including winter and summer tires, $1,500 in vehicle insurance, plus fuel cards, and other gifts, to Ackerman, the recipient of the 3rd annual Shuswap Christmas Car Giveaway.
Ben’s Towing also donated one year of BCAA coverage.
“This gift will help me start a new life,” said Ackerman. “It puts to rest so many questions I had, like how I was going to get to my practicum this spring.”
The Shuswap mom is a full-time student, training online to become a Certified Education Assistant and now taking her practicum at North Canoe Elementary.
“This is a mom who is working really hard for a better future for her young family despite some pretty bad luck over recent months,” said Kal Tire general manager Dan Burt.
“This vehicle is the missing piece that will help bring all her efforts together,” added Justin Braby, sales manager at Braby Motors. “The hand up she needs.”
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Ackerman was nominated for the care giveaway by friend Kathy Forsyth.
“It couldn’t go to a better person,” said Forsyth. “She’s amazingly kind, compassionate, and generous, even though she herself doesn’t have much.”
Choosing among the nominations is a difficult task, said Fix Auto general manager Derick Miller.
“We feel really proud that we can make a difference in one more of these families’ lives,” said Miller.
jim.elliot@saobserver.net
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