KELOWNA — Two single moms are the proud new owners of a much-needed car thanks to the kindness of a few strangers.
Penny Stranaghan and husband Bruce, the owners of Intergra Tire in Kelowna, started The Carma Project as a way to recycle old cars and give back to the community. The body shop accepts unwanted cars from locals, fixes them up and donates them to low-income families in need of transportation.
This year the Carma Project was able to give not one, but two cars away to families in need – a first for the four year old charity.
Lynette Schellenberg and her 15-month-old son Blayden received one of the cars to help make life as a single mom easier. She says the gift of transportation opens a lot of doors.
“It feels exciting. It feels like a new life. It`s amazing; overwhelming” she says.
The charity’s roots stem from Stranaghan’s own experiences as a single mom of two. She moved to Victoria from Alberta without a car years ago and hasn’t forgotten her experience.
“I start to cry when I tell them they have their cars, because I’ve been there. I used to bike to the grocery store with my one and three year olds on my ten speed (bike) with a wagon in the back. I know how that is.”
Annika Dodyk received the second car to help her get around with her seven-year-old son Edward and four-year-old daughter Karina.
“It still hasn’t sunk in yet. I know it’s right here and it’s real, but it’s overwhelming. It’s like a load off my shoulders.”
This year’s giveaway marked The Carma Project’s fourth and fifth donated cars since it’s inception. Those looking to contribute to the Carma Project`s next giveaway can find out how to do so by visiting thecarmaproject.com.
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