Amid Coronavirus, Joliet Repair Shop Giving $50 Certificates

JOLIET, IL — The coronavirus outbreak has had a devastating impact on the economy and that's hitting home in Joliet. Thousands of people employed at bars and restaurants remain out of work. Others are also struggling during these hard times, remarked Bob Skinner, franchise owner of Joliet's Mike More Miles auto service shop at 845 N. Larkin Ave.

As a way to help people out during this period of uncertainty, the Mike More Miles in Joliet is now giving away $50 YES Certificates to walk-in customers.

The $50 certificate is valid toward any automotive service and cannot be redeemed for cash.

Skinner told Joliet Patch the program is easy. All people need to do is come into Mike's and tell one of the employees their particular challenge, and they will be given one.

"We don't call it a gift certificate," Skinner said. "We're here to help with relief. This is going on until our little pandemic has ended.

"We figure we're helping the community and trying to grow our customer base. We're loyal to you and hopefully you come back and use our services."

According to a company brochure at Joliet's Mike More Miles, "This Corona Virus PANDEMIC is a very serious challenge and it is time for all of us to do what we can to help (whatever) way we can.

"Mike More Miles of Northern Illinois is committed to recognizing the nurses, medical workers, care providers, doctors and first responders as well as assisting anyone who has financially suffered as a result of their employer being forced to close."

The company said it is setting aside a minimum of $80,000 in automotive repair and maintenance services "at no cost for the groups mentioned above. This assistance will be denominated in the amount of $50 per individual and take the form of $50 YES Certificates good on any automotive service or repair."

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Skinner has owned the business on Larkin Avenue for 20 years, which used to be a Merlin's.

His hours of operation for Mike More Miles are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. He's closed Sundays. The phone for Mike More Miles is 815-744-4877.

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