---

Lakes Free Church, in cooperation with the county Human Services Dept. and Communities Investing in Families, a non-profit consortium in east central Minnesota, presented the very first vehicle of its new car ministry program to a family of four Monday night.

The Rush City single-parent has had good results working with Human Services in regaining her self-reliance but transportation continued to be a problem. She was ecstatic upon receiving the van this week, pictured in the Lakes Free Church shop. She said this van donation is an answer to her prayers.

Pastor Ron at the Free Church, in Lindstrom, said readying vehicles for recipients is one part of what the church is hoping will become a comprehensive effort among area congregations to aid local needy persons. The goal is to coordinate volunteers from all churches who can do automotive technician duties, or who may have other skills and services that will assist the needy; such as home repair, financial advice, child care, etc. Jeff Copeland, an auto tech instructor in Dakota County, is the lead technician for the Lakes Free program. He mentioned he could use volunteers with automotive skills as this vehicle donation program grows.

Lakes Free makes it easy to donate your vehicle. They’ll pick it up, or if you drop it off, they’ll give you a lift home. Through the county Human Services department a recipient will be selected who will put it to good use. You receive a tax deduction for your vehicle value and you know it will help a local family get back on their feet.

Call Lakes Free at 257-2677 or go to www.lakesfree.org.

---