Local Businesses Join Forces to Offer Van to Neighbor in Need

RoNetco Supermarkets and Hinkley Auto Sales have teamed up to provide a newly-refurbished van to Project Self-Sufficiency participant Yolanda Concepcion.  The van was previously owned by RoNetco Supermarkets and had been used by the firm for company business.  After being taken out of service, the van was thoroughly detailed by Hinkley Auto Sales and then donated to Project Self-Sufficiency, a local non-profit agency which specializes in services for low-income families.

“It is extremely difficult to function as a family in our area without access to a reliable vehicle,” commented Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency.  “This family was in desperate need of a car, and we are delighted to be able to pass this van along to them.  RoNetco Supermarkets is a partner in caring for their neighbors’ families, homes and communities.  We are tremendously grateful to RoNetco Supermarkets and Hinkley Auto Sales for their role in this effort.  Project Self-Sufficiency has been fortunate to be the recipient of several vehicles from individuals and area businesses, and we will continue to welcome the donation of good quality, pre-owned vehicles from our neighbors for families in need.” 

When she learned that she had been selected to receive a van, Project Self-Sufficiency participant Yolanda Concepcion was relieved.  Yolanda has young daughters and they had been borrowing vehicles and relying on rides from family and friends to get to work and accomplish other activities.  “Thank you so much for donating this vehicle to me.  It’s really appreciated.  It means a lot to me and my family.  I really appreciate your kindness and your big heart.” 

Christine Foster, Communications and Training Coordinator at RoNetco Supermarkets, stated, “Over the years, we have donated vehicles to Project Self-Sufficiency many times.  These are corporate vehicles used for operational support and there is still a lot of life left in these cars.  There is no reason why someone who is simply trying to get to work can’t have a safe, reliable vehicle.  They’re in good shape and they are vans, so for a single mom with kids, it makes a big difference.  It’s a win-win situation for everyone.”

Hinkley Auto Sales has contributed detailing services for donated cars to Project Self-Sufficiency in the past.  “Although I am not a woman, I have an understanding of what it would be like to have this burden cast upon you,” commented John Mathews, Partner at Hinkley Auto Sales in Montague and an ardent supporter of Project Self-Sufficiency.  “So keep up the good work and we will do whatever we can to help you folks.”