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Two of the vans that were donated to past families. (Supplied by Big Al's Auto Repair)

Big Al’s Auto Repair preparing fixed-up van to donate to family in need

Dec 6, 2019 | 5:00 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Although Big Al himself is no longer part of the company, its staff are showing that they have a big heart.

Owner Shawn Hammond says this will be the fifth time they have repaired an older, run-down van to donate to a local family for Christmas.

He explains that they started doing this by accident.

Five years ago, a five-person family that was new to Canada bought a small car off of an auction, but it needed some serious work.

After repairing it once and having it still break down, Hammond recalls one of his employees mentioning buying a van and giving it to them instead.

They ended up purchasing an old van, got it back into good condition, and filled it up with food and gifts.

“It’s pretty amazing, there’s lots of tears, lots of hugs, lots of good stuff.”

Since then, this has become a holiday tradition for the team.

In year two, the company partnered with a local service provider that helps struggling families.

Later this month, Big Al’s Auto Repair will present a fully-loaded van to a mom, dad, an 11-year-old boy, and a 13-year-old girl.

“This year’s van is a 2006 Chevy Venture. We’re putting tires and windshields and brakes on it and a few other minor repairs to make it so that it’s in great shape for them to take.”

If you would like to donate cash, gift cards, or food to this year’s family, you can do so until Friday, December 13th at Big Al’s Auto Repair on 3227 2 Ave North.

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