TAMPA, Fla. — RNR Tire Express made Mother's Day memorable this year for three "well-deserving" single moms, awarding them each with a free car, expanding on a philanthropic endeavor started last year
The franchisor put out a nationwide call earlier for nominations of "extraordinary and selfless" mothers.
The winners are single moms Angela Gonzalez of Fayetteville, Ark.; Crystal Thompson of Muskogee, Okla.; and Vicky Crider of Tampa, Fla., who were chosen in recognition of their devotion to motherhood and resilience in overcoming adversity, RNR said.
Tampa-based RNR recognized each woman at a surprise reveal event at their local RNR stores, where nominating families of Mses. Gonzalez and Thompson presented their moms with 2017 Buick Encores and Ms. Crider with a Limited Edition Gold Ford Taurus.
In addition, the brand covered the sales tax and licensing fees of each vehicle and enough oil changes for the moms to enjoy over the next two years, RNR said.
"This vehicle is a blessing that will finally allow me reliable transportation to visit my family," Ms. Crider said.
"I can use it to see my grandson. I don't have to worry about going places and breaking down, or putting leak stop until I can afford to fix it. It's going to make a huge change and I am forever grateful."
As a tribute to his mother, David Harrison, owner of RNR shops in Fayetteville and Muskogee, created the Mother's Day car giveaway a year ago to recognize her hardship.
As one of four siblings, Mr. Harrison said he witnessed first-hand the sacrifice his mom made just so her children could experience a normal childhood. Mr. Harrison was able to repay his mom by purchasing her a car when he was an adult, and last year he created the giveaway to honor other mothers.
"At RNR, we are in the business of positively impacting the lives in our community and our annual Mother's Day Car Giveaway is a natural extension of those core values and will continue to stay at the forefront of our company as we continue to grow," RNR President and founder Larry Sutton said.
"No mother should ever have to drive an old truck that requires a jug of antifreeze and water just to get to work. It is an honor to provide help and support to three deserving moms and a true blessing for all those who played a role in making this giveaway possible."
Nexen Tire America participated in the effort, equipping the donated vehicles with Nexen tires.