At the Goodyear-Firestone Auto Shop in Nashboro Village, some of the vehicles being worked on will help those less fortunate.
"About six or seven years ago we saw a need in the community for families that weren't able to have a way of transportation," ministry founder, Doe Dayton said.
With help from a few fellow church members at The Glade Church in Wilson County, Dayton formed the Automotive Ministry. Used vehicles have been donated and refurbished before they're given to families in need.
"We have a two year waiting list," said Dayton. However, a few families will have to wait a little longer after thieves got away with thousands of dollars worth of parts.
"When I came in, turned the lights on, I seen a pallet laying up against the car," senior mechanic, Kirk Thomas said. He noticed the wheels and tires on several vehicles were missing. Three of those vehicles belonged to the ministry.
"It's just a shame in my heart that somebody is actually stealing from a church," Dayton said.
To make a bad situation worse, Dayton learned his shop wasn't the only target on the thieves' list overnight. "Last night this crew hit close to 20 cars," he explained.
Employees at a nearby shop also said a number of their vehicles were burglarized.
"Shame shame shame and bring em back! They can leave em stacked up behind the store tonight," said Dayton.
Tis the season for giving and Dayton hopes whoever did this will find it in their hearts to give back what they took.
"Its just a sad situation this time of the year, we've got people needing vehicles and we can't get them to them," he said.
The shop's insurance will help cover the cost of the stolen parts, however their biggest concern has been getting transportation to those families in need.
If you're interested in learning more about The Glade Church's Automotive Ministry, click here.
