While most of us take our vehicles for granted, for some, every trip to the grocery store, to school or to the doctor's office is a gamble on a less-than-reliable truck or car.

For many of those people, a set of good wheels can transform their lives. That's why, since 2004, the Chilliwack Times has teamed with local car dealerships and repair shops to give away a fully refurbished car to a deserving family or individual at Christmas time.

This year, the Times, Fix Auto Chilliwack, Valley Toyota and Simpson Auto are uniting for the ninth annual Christmas Car Giveaway.

The Times is now accepting nomination letters for those whose lives could be significantly improved by the gift of reliable transportation. Nominees may be a family or person who has fallen on hard times financially, who has health issues, or is a single parent.

To nominate a family or individual, send a 300-words-or-less letter explaining why the nominee is worthy of this Christmas gift. A selection panel will read each letter and the final choice will be based on need. The deadline for nominations is Dec. 14 at 5 p.m.

? Send letters to: Christmas Car Giveaway c/o the Chilliwack Times 45951 Trethewey Ave., Chilliwack, BC V2P 1K4 Or fax them to 604-792-9300 or email editorial@chilliwacktimes.com.