Hometown Heroes, We Want to Hear Your Stories!

Auto dealers are always ready to lend a hand. That’s been proven time and time again from the moment the COVID-19 shutdown began through today in the early stages of the economic recovery. CBT News has posted stories about dealers caring for their communities  and being part of the support network for the underprivileged. If you or someone you know in the automotive industry should be featured on the CBT Automotive Network, please reach out!

The invitation to tell heartwarming stories of an industry helping in this time of need extends to auto dealers, manufacturers, vendors, and suppliers. You could be featured on-air in an interview with Jim Fitzpatrick or in an article online.

These are a few examples. 

Phoenix Dealer Supplies Food Banks

In a strong effort to put food in the bellies of hungry families, Camelback Subaru in Phoenix, AZ is giving to food banks in a big way. So far, the community-focused dealer has donated more than 98,000 meals to St. Mary’s Food Bank by way of Feeding America.

But nearly 100,000 meals donated is just the start. The dealership has committed to donating 100 meals to a food bank for every car purchased through May 31st. Showing that it’s not about them, the car buyer receives a tax donation slip, dollar for dollar, for the meal donation.

Camelback Subaru recognized the need in their community, and across the country as a whole. With more than 2 million Americans struggling every year for access to adequate food, nearly one-third of Arizonians are considered working poor and have trouble making ends meet.

Those who aren’t in the market for a vehicle are also encouraged to participate. Camelback Subaru has placed a donation box inside where the public can drop off much-needed non-perishable food items such as canned pasta, peanut butter, canned vegetables, cereal, canned protein items, and more. 

Face Masks for the Vulnerable

Clear across the country in Queens, NY, PPE has been a precious and rare commodity. Face masks have been sought after since COVID-19 began spreading through the state like wildfire, and some of the most vulnerable have been left without. That is, until Queens dealers stepped up to the plate.

Franchised new car dealers in Queens have donated 50,000 face masks to borough residents to help keep them safe in the pandemic. Donated through the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA), they will be distributed to the elderly, essential workers, and others in vulnerable populations.

The donation is part of the larger picture in New York. GNYADA collectively is facilitating donations of a half million masks in 12 downstate counties. Since Governor Cuomo announced mask requirements in situations where social distancing isn’t possible, the need for masks has increased even more.

The donation of three-ply paper masks was delivered to acting Queens Borough President, Sharon Lee’s office for distribution.

Collectively, the downstate NY auto dealers contribute more than $20 million annually in community and charitable causes, making them deserving of any recognition that comes their way. 

Contact us today with your stories!

Did you enjoy this article from Jason Unrau? Read other articles from him here.

Car Biz Today, the official resource of the retail automotive industry.