A Navy veteran and mother of four who is battling cancer is given a newly refurbished car. Karen Jones is rebuilding her life. Just five years ago, the single mother from Long Island was homeless. She’s currently undergoing chemo treatment for breast cancer and has had four surgeries so far with more to come. But the 56-year-old Navy veteran is determined to overcome these obstacles.
Jones recently got a job with FEMA as a pandemic crisis counselor and has gotten her real estate license. But not having reliable transportation has held her back. So Jones was a perfect candidate for Caliber Collision's annual 'Tis The Season To Give nationwide car giveaway campaign. In collaboration with GEICO insurance and as part of the NABC Recycled Rides program, the car repair chain is giving refurbished cars to worthy recipients. On Tuesday of this week, Jones got the keys to her newly refurbished Ford Fusion. There were dozens of applicants for the program, but Jones was the logical choice. GEICO rep Chris Hengerle says Jones “redefines the word strength.”
Since 2012, Caliber has teamed up with its industry partners to give away over 500 refurbished cars to people in need. Jones is one of three recipients of refurbished rides through the program so far this year. She’s grateful for the gift and ready to put it to use doing what she does. "I'm extremely thankful because now I can do what I've always done, even in the military — serve," Jones says.