debbie sent a message to Muhtar Kent Chairman and CEO, The Coca-Cola Company that said:
Hello Mr. Kent
I promised my son Derrick I would ensure he received a college education. A few years ago I lost my home, therefore went my good credit. I knew it wouldnt be easy but I was up for the challenge. I didn't want him to have a lot of student loans, although there is outstanding loans.
Derrick attended Pasadena City College before getting accepted and attending Concordia University, Irvine, CA. I didn't have good credit (and still rebuilding it). I leased a 2012 Kia Optima for him to drive to and from college since I couldnt afford for Derrick to live on campus. I had to take the bus 3 hours to work and 3 hours back home.
Well, on May 2, 2015, Derrick graduated form Concordia University! The first in my family. Im soooo proud of him! A few months after graduating, Derrick came home and handed me keys to a car. I asked if it was a rental. Derrick said no it's yours. I found out Derrick had received a small refund from the college and used it for a down payment on the car for me. I asked him why? He said, he realizes what I did to ensure he got a degree and it hurt him watching me ride the bus 3 hours to work, work 8 hours then take the bus 3 hours back home. I was moved to tears...I'm so honored to be his mother! Now, the guilt....that refund should have gone towards his student loans. Now looking back it probably wasn't a wise decision to lease driving all those miles. The lease it up April 23, 2016. Derrick is head coach for Glendora High School track and field. He drives a lot, meetings, track meets, practices. He loves kids and loves coaching. On March 28, 2016 he was let go from his full time job at Sports Chalet after 6 years because his position was eliminated. Track and field is only seasonal. I offered to give him my car he put the down payment on. He would rather ride the bus than see me back on the bus.
I would love to give back to my son Derrick. Do you know of any programs that assist with student loans? Are there any programs that maybe loan or donate a car for a period of time and then return it?
Any help, suggestions or direction you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much for your time.
Debbie
