Not one, but two ‘Recycled Rides’ going to single-mom families this year

EAST BRUNSWICK — Last year, you may remember the efforts of one local business to provide a family in need with a reliable vehicle to get around town. In 2017, Branning Collision Centers is truly doubling down, offering cars to two families through its annual "Recycled Rides" program.

Branning will make the presentations on the morning of Thursday, Oct. 12, at its East Brunswick location. The recipients, two single mothers, were already selected through a screening process which ensured they have steady jobs to account for the insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs of their new vehicles.

A one-child family in Middlesex County will be receiving a 2015 Kia Optima, and a family with four children in Monmouth County will be getting a 2015 Toyota Corolla. Both cars were previously total losses, which Geico donated to Branning for repairs and refurbishment.

"All of our painters and technicians are helping us to fix the vehicles," said Kim Branning of the auto body chain. "Local businesses, parts vendors, insurance agents, everyone is donating ... We could not continue to donate these vehicles year after year without the partners that are helping us."

Recycled Rides is once again backed by the FISH Hospitality Network, of Piscataway, and 180 Turning Lives Around, of Hazlet. Both nonprofits support single moms who may have been victims of domestic abuse and are experiencing financial or other hardships, including homelessness.

Patrick Lavery produces "New Jersey's First News" and is New Jersey 101.5's morning drive breaking news reporter. Follow him on Twitter @plavery1015 or email patrick.lavery@townsquaremedia.com.

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