ARCADIA, Okla. (KFOR) — It's been said "If you teach a man to fish, he'll eat for a lifetime." One mechanic believes in another saying, "Fix a man's car for cheap or free, he'll keep his livelihood." That's the mission of his automotive ministry, but he needs donations to continue helping others.
"I want somebody to sow into me so I can use something to help somebody," said Joshua Shook of Hope City Automotive.
Shook has been a full-time mechanic for well over a decade.
"I've always loved tinkering on stuff, figuring how things work, how to make them better," he said.
Through his Hope City Automotive ministry, he's making different kinds of repairs—the ones found on vehicles, and the repairs found in the hearts of people in need.
"Some of the stories just make you cry and have no answers. Every single time I just want to love on them and pray on them," said Shook.
Last year, Hope City Church in Arcadia, received a few calls from folks down on their luck, needing money for car repairs. The church's "Car Guy" stepped in.
"It just very quickly ramped up and I've almost been doing it full time for 14 months," said Shook.
So far, Shook has partnered with different stores and is able to get some parts for cheap or free, which he passes on.
"At the end of the day, no one walks away without a safe car, period," said Shook.
Terry Cuthbertson, pastor of Hope City Church, told News 4 the mission matters.
"I know it seems like a simple thing, but it's such a big impact," said Cuthbertson. "If we keep them in a car that's running, that they can keep a job, they're going to make the paycheck so they can keep up on their bills."
Not only that, often Shook is able to help the person find resources for different problems they're facing. The need isn't stopping.
Shook's hoping churches and business will contribute monthly donations, so he can open a full-time facility stocked with those who can fix cars and restore hope.
Shook said a simple oil change could lead to the change in someone's life.
"The common denominator is everyone needs help with their car," said Shook.
If you'd like to contribute, click here.
