A CONGOLESE family in need of a convenient and budget-friendly “people mover” recently received a helping hand from a South East car dealership.
Eunike Mitamba Jonas and her family had been searching for a suitable vehicle for some time after settling in Mount Gambier over a year ago.
Following an unsavoury experience with another car dealership, Carlin & Gazzard were more than happy to guide Ms Jonas in the right direction.
Car salesman Ken Feltus helped Ms Jonas purchase an eight-seater Kia mini van at an affordable price.
Mr Feltus said the van had only recently been traded in and was suitable to the family’s budget and needs.
“It was clear they needed a people mover if you looked at the family’s size, so I chased around and sorted something out for them,” Mr Feltus said.
“They may have been railroaded into something which was no good for them, but they now have a suitable vehicle and not stuck with something inconvenient.”
Mr Feltus said the company made sure it listened to what customers wanted.
“We do not sell anything our client does not want,” he said.
“These people may not understand our language as they have just moved to the country and may easily be taken advantage of.
“We do not want these people coming to our country and the first thing which happens to them is they get ripped off by a car dealer, not a good start.”
Mr Feltus said he was happy to help and welcome the family into the area.
“People should have morals and be honest,” he said.
“I have been doing this for 45 years and the key is to do things the right way.
“Everyone should look at the bigger picture and these people have come from war-torn countries to a better life here in Mount Gambier.”
Showing compassion, Mr Feltus said people needed to change their attitudes.
“They are going to come here and be a part of our country,” he said.
“We have to show these people some compassion and do the right thing.”
Ms Jonas said the car would be used for family outings and everyday activities.
“We want to use it to travel around town and see what is on offer in the area,” she said.
“It helps when there are people in the area which provide some guidance.”
Ms Jones and her family recently took the vehicle to the beach which was their first time seeing the sea.
