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Van Bortel donates van to Pirate Toy Fund
Van Bortel donates van to Pirate Toy Fund
When the van used by the Pirate Toy Fund broke down last fall, the organization was in a bind.
Executive director Otto Harnischfeger asked Kitty Van Bortel, president of Van Bortel Auto Group, if she could help find a replacement.
Van Bortel did more than locate a van. She donated one.
Dubbed The Toy Cruiser, the Ford Transit van was donated on Friday, enabling the nonprofit organization to continue its mission of providing toys to children in need.
“I don’t think there’s anything more important than helping kids, especially during the holidays,” Van Bortel said at a news conference.
The Pirate Toy Fund distributed 36,000 toys last year to program partners last year, including area hospitals, the Red Cross and Toys on Patrol, an initiative that allows members of law enforcement to use toys to provide comfort to children during crisis situations.
“If you have to support somebody, support somebody who helps our charities and the community, support Van Bortel,” Harnischfeger said.
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