Virginia veteran given refurbished car as part of Recycled Rides program

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A Virginia veteran received a refurbished car this week as part of a program that helps people in need gain access to reliable transportation.

Timothy Johnston was the recipient selected this time around -- a soldier with the Virginia National Guard that will soon be retiring after five years on the job as the result of a service-related injury.

He received a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek on Wednesday, March 19, in Mechanicsville as part of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. NABC was joined by car donor insurance partner Travelers and collision repair partner Joe Judson's Collision Center to make the donations possible.

(Photo: Mark Morales, 8News)

The car will help ensure that Johnston has transportation to take himself and his family -- including his two young sons -- to work, doctor's appointments and military obligations.

8News got the chance to speak with Johnston during the event about what it means to him that he was chosen for this opportunity.

"I have a special needs son who has to go hours away for his appointments and my current vehicle was breaking down left and right," Johnston said. "I really needed something that was more reliable, that I didn't have to fork thousands of dollars into every few months just to keep it safe enough for the children to ride in."

(Photo: Mark Morales, 8News)

When asked about whether or not he would recommend the program to other veterans, Johnston had only positive things to say.

"I absolutely recommend it," he said. "I really feel like they should learn about this program if they haven't heard about it already, and I mean, apply for it -- it could really help."

According to Joseph Truda, appraisal director at Traveler's, the program has helped more than 70 families gain access to more reliable transportation.

For more information about the program, and how you and your loved ones can apply, click here.