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COMMENTARY
Dale Huffman: Project donates vehicles to women who have been victims of domestic violence
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Often women who are beaten, battered and abused by a partner get trapped in the situation because it is difficult to leave. They have no personal income, no savings, no transportation.
Some take a bus to a shelter, or a ride from a friend they can trust.
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If they owned an automobile it just might be a key to safety and independence.
There is good news for at least 12 women in the Miami Valley who are victims of domestic violence.
Thanks to the generosity of a dozen independent business owners who own and operate Auto Value Certified Service Centers in the Miami Valley the women will be presented refurbished and reliable used automobiles at no charge. The presentation will take place on Oct. 6 beginning at 10 a.m. at Quaker Steak and Lube, 3725 Presidential Drive in Beavercreek.
Max Williams, general manager of Genuine Auto Parts, 32 Franklin St. in Dayton, has spearheaded the assistance program, supported by the 12 automobile service centers in the area.
Williams, who is 61, said the project is close to his heart.
"I have two grown daughters who experienced a pretty rough time a few years back," he said. "Both were saved from abusive situations, and I realize how important it is to escape from that kind of environment."
He added, "We have been told this is the largest single vehicle donation program to victims of domestic violence in Dayton history. And for us, this is just the beginning."
The recipients were selected by directors of area shelters that serve women who escape from domestic abuse.
The Junior League of Dayton will donate child safety seats if the women have children and AAA Miami Valley will present each driver with a one-year free membership for emergency road assistance.
Bob Barlow, chairman of the project, said, "All the vehicles have been donated, by companies or individuals. Each will undergo rigorous inspection for safety conditions. Each vehicle will have an Auto Value, bumper-to-bumper 12,000 mile warranty on all replacement parts and labor."
Barlow said the program, called Charity Cars Inc., will help the women with insurance, as well as license and title fees.
"We are pleased to do this," Williams said. "I heard about a similar program in Chicago, and we had meetings with all the local folks involved and decided to offer our help."
He added, "Genuine Auto Parts is donating parts needed to restore the vehicles, and our members at 12 service centers offered to do what they do best — maintain, service and repair the vehicles.
"We have 12 vehicles this year, and perhaps we will offer 24 next year. We will see how it works."
For more information, or to donate a car, you can call Max Williams at (937) 223-9645.
Dale Huffman wants your suggestions and story ideas. This column is for you. Send e-mail to dhuffman@DaytonDailyNews.com or write to Dale at 1611 S. Main St. Dayton OH 45409. Phone: (937) 225-2272.
