Christmas is coming to one deserving family this year and the Abbotsford-Mission Times is Santa's little helper - teaming up with local repair shops to give the gift of a newly refurbished car just in time for the holidays.

Fix Auto Abbotsford East (H&R), Abbotsford West (Renascent) and Abbotsford Nissan have teamed up with the Times for this annual Christmas Car Giveaway.

Last year's winner, Kari Beyea, was overwhelmed with the gift.

"My whole body's shaking," the single mom said last year, looking at her maroon-coloured 2005 refurbished Pontiac Grand Am, which sparkled like new.

"I'll have more employment opportunities and I'll actually be able to get [son] Tristan to Children's Hospital when I need to. Wow, I'll actually be able to do that."

For many folks, a set of good wheels can transform their lives and that's why the Abbotsford-Mission Times has been involved in the car giveaway since 2004.

"It's a hand up, not a hand out," said Times publisher Nick Bastaja.

"I wish we had 50 cars to give away."

The Times is now accepting nomination letters for those whose lives could be significantly improved by the gift of reliable transportation.

The deadline for letters to be received is Dec. 14 at 5 p.m.

Nominees may be a family member or other person who has fallen on hard times financially, who has health issues, or is a single parent.

Those looking to nominate someone need to write a letter to the Times - 300 words or less - saying why your nominee is worthy of this gift. The selection panel will read each letter and the final choice will be made based on the needs of those nominated.

The car will be awarded on Wednesday, Dec. 19.

- Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, to the Times office (30887 Peardonville Rd., Abbotsford V2T 6K2), by e-mail to dmcdonald@abbotsfordtimes.com (with the subject line: Car Giveaway) or to Fix Auto Abbotsford West (2381 Windsor St., Abbotsford).