More than 80 classic and specialty cars filled Niagara Motors’ lot on Saturday as community members gathered for the dealership’s fourth annual charity show in support of Red Roof Retreat.
The event raised thousands for Red Roof’s programs, with Niagara Motors committed to matching every dollar collected through barbecue sales, raffles and penny auctions.
“Whether we raise $5 or $5,000, we’ll double it,” said sales consultant David Campbell.
Several Red Roof Retreat volunteers were at the car show, serving food to help support the fundraiser.
The funds will support day-to-day operations while the organization moves ahead with a major expansion of its current facilities, said volunteer Merv Ott.
“We’ve served families in Niagara-on-the-Lake for 25 years, and this support helps us keep doing that while we prepare to expand,” said Ott.
The charity supports local children and adults with special needs through adult day camps, special needs care and other recreational programs.
Ott said turnout this year was even stronger than last year, with many people stopping by the Red Roof barbecue table.
“It’s all about visibility, and everybody likes a hot dog,” said Ott.
Event co-ordinator Matt Habinski said the show welcomed more than 80 vehicles, including dozens of returning exhibitors who travel the car show circuit together.
“They keep coming back because it’s fun, and everyone likes beautiful cars,” said Habinski.
Niagara Motors awarded three trophies to participants — one for fan favourite, one for staff pick and one for most unique story — all donated by the family of the late Brad Elliott, a former stock car racer and local collector.
“It’s a really nice community touch,” said Habinski.
Kathy Kocsis, whose mother lives with Alzheimer’s disease, ran a puzzle sale table to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society, with donations and puzzles going directly to long-term care homes in Niagara.
“My mom had collected 75 puzzles before she went into care, so I wanted to do something in her honour, and the community has been very generous,” said Kocsis.
She said many guests stopped by the table just to donate, and others asked if it would return next year.
“I think it’s turning into an annual event,” said Kocsis.
With Niagara Motors matching all donations, organizers expect to surpass last year’s total of $10,000, which will help sustain Red Roof’s work as it begins its next chapter.
