The Heights Car Show partners with DFW car clubs to benefit Richardson’s Network of Community Ministries
In many cases, Covid-19 has robbed us of our ability to gather together. But, while it caused the cancellation of many events, it can never steal our compassion for our community.
Last April, the Heights Car Show organizers couldn’t see a way to safely gather for one of DFW’s largest car shows, which was expected to attract more than 500 cars and thousands of spectators. But they still wanted to support the Network of Community Ministries, which has seen a huge surge in people who never before had to rely on a food bank.
The Heights Car Show partnered with the Dallas Area Pontiac Association, the Ferrari Club of America DFW, and other area car clubs to support a Cruise-In Food Drive July 11 on The Heights Church campus. More than 100 cars participated and raised more than $11,800 worth of cash and food donations for the Network.
“I was really surprised by all of the people who braved the heat and donated so generously,” said Heights Car Show organizer Brian Ratcliff. “The car community is so incredibly giving. I especially want to recognize Don Fenton of the Dallas Area Pontiac Association for helping brainstorm the idea for the Cruise-In and for DAPA’s amazing support. I also want to thank Classic BMW for their $5,000 cash donation, several coolers of waters to give to donors, plus loading John Kobell’s 1955 Ford truck with food. Thanks to Dennis and Kim Collins of Collins Brothers Jeep. Kim personally went to several stores to buy out all their Goya products. Steve Fordham, president of the Ferrari Club DFW, collected food from club members and brought their donations to the Heights.”
Participants drove their classic, exotic and sports cars to The Heights to donate cash and food items. Some set up lawn chairs in the shade to socialize and watch the parade of cars throughout the day. Participants wore masks and followed social distancing guidelines.
"We are incredibly grateful for all of the support coming to Network from the Heights Cruise-In this year,” said Cindy Shafer, Network of Community Ministries President & CEO. “Never did we expect over 3,000 pounds of food, as well as over $6,500 in donations! All will be put to immediate use at Network as our response to the COVID impact continues at record-breaking levels."
Over the Heights Car Show's 13-year history, it has raised more than $66,155 and 11,600 pounds of food for the Network of Community Ministries.
Founded in 1956, the Heights Church is located at 201 W. Renner Road at U.S. 75 in Richardson. Directions and more at http://www.theheights.org