Melissa Hall thought she was in trouble when her supervisor wanted to talk to her. Instead, she found out she had just won a new Kia Soul from United Way of West Florida.
“I really wanted to throw up,” said Melissa. “I was very, very shocked. Very surprised.”
Melissa works in the produce department at the Tiger Point Publix. She’s worked there since 2017 and has given to United Way of West Florida since she started.
“I’ve had several people I know use United Way,” said Melissa. “It’s very helpful for people in our community and it stays in our community. I really appreciate that.”
Kia AutoSport of Pensacola donated the new car to encourage donors to give to United Way of West Florida during its annual fundraising campaign. Every donor giving $250 or more was eligible to win. Melissa’s name was randomly drawn from hundreds of entries.
“This day is always such a good day, to see the winner’s face and the excitement,” said Jessica Lee, Kia Autosport of Pensacola Vice President and General Manager. “We enjoy our partnership because United Way gives back to so many organizations in our community.”
“Kia AutoSport is an amazing partner,” said Laura Gilliam, United Way of West Florida President and CEO. “They are incredibly generous, and we are so thankful for their support. What an amazing way to encourage new people to donate and to encourage current donors to increase their gift.”
This is the seventh year for United Way of West Florida’s Kia Giveaway.