BLAINE – (May 27, 2021) – During the pandemic, a local non-profit was as busy as ever repairing cars for people who can’t afford the repairs themselves. Cars for Neighbors works with a Ham Lake repair shop to do the work. In the past year, they’ve repaired 65 vehicles. Since most people drive to work in Anoka County, it’s key to keeping a job. Organizers say as employment picks up again, the repairs are key to helping bring workers back.
“As the economy reopens, many of the people we helped with are going to be in jobs where they cannot Zoom in, they can’t do virtual,” said Cars for Neighbors director of philanthropic partnerships, Joe McKenzie. “They are physically going to go to work. They’re going to need cars. In Anoka County you need a vehicle to get from point A to point B. Our repairs create economic opportunity, empowerment, and mobility.”
Cars for Neighbors is holding a unique fundraiser to keep the mission going. It’s part car show, and part entertainment called, “Cruise and Shine.”
“We’ll be partnering with JR’s Outpost, along with the Cold Steel Cruisers to have both a car show and a short cruise in the area. This all to raise funds to help people in Anoka County get from point A to B.”
The “Cruise and Shine” event will be held June 5 at JR’s Outpost Bar and Grill, 6141 W. Highway 10 in Ramsey. You can take part in a short cruise for a $20 fee. There’s also a car show and concert planned. Registration is available at www.carsforneighbors.org.
