Branning Collision Center Gives Cars To 2 Single Moms

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — This October, Branning Collision Center in East Brunswick donated two cars to two single mothers in need.

Branning worked with 180 Turning Lives Around, a non-profit based in Hazlet that helps women escape domestic violence and abuse situations, and Middlesex County-based FISH Hospitality Program. The two non-profits helped Branning select the two young women.

Cindy received a 2015 Toyota Corolla and the Middlesex County recipient received a 2015 Kia Optima. (Their full names and faces cannot be released out of concern for their safety.)

"I am very grateful for everyone involved in the whole process. You cannot imagine the impact that this has on my life and the lives of my children. I want to thank everyone for their time and effort," said Cindy. She can be seen above looking at her new Toyota and was overcome with emotion when it was given to her.

The cars were presented to the moms last Thursday, Oct. 12 at Branning's Rt. 18 location in East Brunswick.

“It is extremely rewarding for us to do this," said Kim Branning. "It's often taken for granted, but a woman owning her own reliable vehicle can be instrumental in financial independence and stability.”

This is the fourth time in three years that Branning has participated in the Recycled Rides program. Here's how it works: Geico Insurance donated a 2015 Kia and a 2015 Toyota. Both of those cars had been previously damaged in accidents. Branning then put in many hours of work to completely restore the vehicles. These are the fourth and fifth vehicles Geico and Branning have restored for the program.

Branning and 180 looks for single mothers who are in need of safe and reliable self-owned transportation. They select a woman who is either actively employed or is taking strong initiative to seek employment.

Branning Collision Centers is a collision center company with seven locations throughout New Jersey.

The Recycled Rides program is run by the National Auto Body Council. Since its creation in 2007, the program has helped provide over 1,000 vehicles to families in need.