Former foster child surprised with car at Madison business where she works

JACKSON, miss. (WLBT) – A Madison company is committed to helping children in foster care and young adults who have left the foster family.

Ice and Vice gives hope, skills, educational opportunities, and transportation options. We find out why the owners and those they help make Mississippi Strong.

This Prius was presented to Riyah who works for Ice and Vice. She saved money, received a transportation grant, and help from First Place for Youth to get her first car.(WLBT)

In addition to all of the sweet and unique goodies at Ice and Vice in Madison, there is a special employment program that gives children in foster care and those who have come out of the system work experience, mentoring, and a transportation grant to help buy their first vehicle.

Sarah Dale Harmon said, “One of the reasons we are so passionate about helping teenagers in foster care is that we have actually adopted all four of our foster children.”

Justin Harmon said, “We have worked with about seven foster children who have come to us and our goal, as Sarah Dale said, is to teach them some life skills, just general life skills and help them move on, I hope has have a positive impact on their lives. “

This time the recipient of the biannual scholarship is Riyah.

Riyah will start classes at Holmes Community College on Monday and plans to attend Jackson State University to become a social worker.(WLBT)

“Life right now is really tough for me because I have to take care of transportation and stuff, so I’m really grateful and grateful that they gave me the car,” said Riyah.

There are fundraisers throughout the year to help with the scholarship and other opportunities.

Along with the Prius, Riyah received a full tank, a month of free car wash, and help with spending and oil changes on a budget.

“It’s a wonder I got a car at the time I needed it,” said Riyah.

Samantha Kalahar, director of First Place For Youth in Mississippi, said, “We are working with these youth to ensure they do not become homeless as they leave the care system and the relative safety of that system. That they don’t end up with imprisonment. “

On Monday, the Harmons will help Riyah set up auto insurance and register their day.

For Riyah and other contestants, it’s about a lot more than just a car – it shows that they haven’t been forgotten and that they too are Mississippi Strong.

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