Car giveaway helps local family

Jensen was nominated by Elizabeta of WAGAP, a long-standing nonprofit partner in the Gorge. Her story reflects extraordinary resilience and the critical need for dependable transportation.

This fall, Jensen’s 12-year-old son, Braxten, was urgently hospitalized after what was believed to be a sinus infection progressed to a life-threatening condition. He had multiple brain surgeries, and surgeries to his sinuses and eye due to a severe infection that caused temporary paralysis. He still has limited mobility in his left leg and foot. Throughout this medical crisis, Jensen and her family lost reliable transportation. Their car was unsafe, often failed to start, and couldn’t accommodate Braxten’s wheelchair. 

With significant caregiving responsibilities, financial strain, and a disabled partner, Jensen serves as the primary provider and caregiver for her family.

Jensen said in the application: “Receiving this vehicle would literally change our lives. After my son was hospitalized and now suffering partial paralysis, we need a vehicle we can depend on to get him to all of his appointments and therapies ... This past year has been unbelievably difficult, from losing my father and our home, to my son’s major surgeries and a long hospitalization. I need to ensure my children are safe, and having reliable transportation would give us peace of mind and the stability we desperately need.”

Blake Underriner, managing partner of Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles, said, “Safe and reliable transportation is vital for a family’s economic well-being and their ability to stay connected with their community. We are thrilled to host this giveaway for a third year and are grateful for the opportunity to support a family during such a difficult time.”

Caroline Grew, executive director of United Way of the Columbia Gorge, added, “This partnership with Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles demonstrates the power of collaboration among local nonprofits and businesses.”

United Way invited nominations from its 33 nonprofit partners. Applications were reviewed by United Way, and a final decision by Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles. The dealership team volunteers their time to ensure the donated vehicle is safe, reliable, and ready for the recipient.