Bunyard Automotive donates car to Colfax residents

Bunyard Automotive in Colfax this week donated a car to a local family.

As part of their new autoclub program, owner Jacob Bunyard purchased a Ford Focus from an online seller in Spokane, fixed up a number of the vehicle's problems and donated it to Rich and Dyann Nelson.

The Nelsons of Colfax have one of 10 children at home and more than a dozen grandchildren. They stay active in the local community by cleaning their church every week. Rich's car had been experiencing issues since the Fourth of July that Bunyard was unable to fix after several visits to his shop.

According to co-owner Lacie Bunyard, the Bunyards saw the Nelsons as deserving of the new ride to help out with their busy schedule and car troubles.

"I thought, 'I don't care what we do, we need to help them,'" Lacie Bunyard said.

Rich Nelson said he was called down to Bunyard's Monday after Jacob Bunyard told him he wanted to try a new technique to fix his old ride. When he arrived, Bunyard asked, "How do you like the color red?" Nelson was confused initially, but his confusion quickly turned to excitement after Bunyard explained that the red Focus now belonged to him.

"I was overwhelmed," Nelson said. "I didn't know what to say, I was just so appreciative."

Nelson said having a problem-free car is a big weight off his shoulders and hopes he can return the favor.

"I just hope I can do something for the Bunyards or pass it on somehow," Nelson said.

Lacie Bunyard explained they plan to continue using the autoclub to give to community members in need and are looking to involve more locals who also want to serve their community. She said they are seeking nominations for families and individuals to receive the next donation.