“We wanted to do this because the Ionia community has supported us,” said Bill Sain of S&P Auto Body.

He said he went to a number of local business for help with the contest and none hesitated to join, offering services, parts or a monetary donation.

“Everybody is really throwing in a lot,” Sain added. “It's going to be like a brand new car.”

He said he was impressed by the outpouring of assistance from the businesses, which tells him other business owners want to focus on a bigger picture.

“It's about giving back, it’s not about competition,” Sain said.

Rick Poole of S&P said he is looking for community members to submit letters on behalf of someone deserving of a Christmas blessing. Letters should include the person’s name, address, phone number and how that person has been a blessing in their neighborhood or touched the lives of others.

“We want them to know people care,” said Poole, adding he hopes the gift also will give the recipient hope for the future.

Community members will be able to vote on the finalists by ‘liking’ the Facebook page of S&P Auto Body, and then ‘liking’ the posted letter. The letter with the most votes will receive the vehicle sometime around Christmas day.

Poole and Sain said they are looking forward to surprising the winner.