Variety Family to Receive Free Van from United Access

With six kids, it’s no surprise that Variety mom Dell has racked up more than 300,000 miles on the family van. One of her regular passengers is 19-year-old son Martin, who has cerebral palsy, epilepsy and developmental delays, requiring a power wheelchair to get around. Needless to say, replacing the family vehicle isn't exactly an easy task.

Though Variety doesn't provide vans (only lifts!), we have a great relationship with United Access, a local mobility services dealer that donates one wheelchair-accessible van to a family in need each year.

Just over a month ago, Variety referred Dell to United Access, which quickly determined that her family was a worthy recipient of a 1989 Ford E-250 full-sized van, complete with a raised roof and Braun wheelchair lift with rear manual tie-down straps, allowing Dell to park the van and get Martin in and out of the vehicle without needing additional space at the side door. The van, which has less than 90,000 miles, boasts three additional passenger seats and is up-to-date on inspections and maintenance, thanks to more than $500 in donated services by Carson Natural Bridge Automotive.

It's been a couple weeks in the making, but Dell, Martin and the rest of their family will receive their new van THIS WEEK on Friday, June 17, at 10 a.m. at the office of United Access in Hazelwood (9839 Natural Bridge Road).

We are so proud to play even a small role in this donation. Not only is it important that Dell and her family have safe transportation, but Martin wouldn't even be able to leave the house without a reliable vehicle that can accommodate his wheelchair. We can't wait to see their faces on Friday when they get the keys to their new ride...stay tuned to Facebook for photos of the big day!