Kelowna, BC – Christmas came early for the Martens family of Kelowna who received a special gift from RSA Insurance Group and Kelowna Performance Collision on Tuesday. The family received the keys to a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe.
The Santa Fe was involved in a collision, but thanks to the auto body repair work of Kelowna Performance Collision, the SUV was fixed up like new.
For dad Duane, the donated vehicle means a two-hour bus ride to his work is no longer needed. With three young sons, the family sees the car a true blessing, making trips to school, picking up grocery and doctor appointments no longer a challenging commute.
The family was nominated by members of their church, Kelowna Gospel Fellowship. Dozens of names of deserving families were put forward by local non-profits and church groups.
The Martens’ new wheels makes RSA’s third year in donating a vehicle to needy family in Kelowna.
“The vehicles still have a lot of life left in them, they can be repaired to industry standard, and we know there are families in our community that can benefit,” said Gladys Kosowan, an adjuster with RSA Insurance. “We are glad to be a part of it.”
Kelowna Performance Collision partnered with local companies to repair the vehicle, including four winter tires from Fountain Tire, parts from Kelowna Hyundai, a used tailgate D &M Auto Recyclers, a windshield from Vanfax, a wheel alignment from RH Wheel and Brake. Capri Insurance contributed the cost of insurance.
Others supported by filling the Sante Fe with presents, including grocery and shopping gift cards donated by Chase Auto Body Supplies, Kelowna Chrysler, Harmony Honda/Acura, Sentes Group, Kelowna Ford, and two adult jackets donated by Kelowna BMW.
Kelowna Performance owner Peter Facinek says his team came in on their own time to repair the vehicle.
“Today is a time to give,” said Facinek. “It is just giving someone a leg up, and that is what it is all about.”
