CHICAGO (Nov. 7, 2013) - The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) and Tom Peck Ford presented a check to the Animal House Shelter of Huntley for $1,500 as part of the CATA's Chicagoland Dealers Care program. 

The Chicagoland Dealers Care program helps to deliver additional financial support and advocacy to local charitable organizations already put forth by Chicagoland new-car dealers. Tom Peck Ford has a long history of providing financial support to the Animal House Shelter and even donated a vehicle to help safely transport rescue animals to the shelter.

"This donation couldn't have come at a better time for our shelter," said Cindy Ritter, director of the Animal House Shelter. "The funds will be greatly utilized in the form of providing food and medical care to the animals. It's extremely hard for us to make ends meet, but with the help of the Chicagoland Dealers Care program, we're able cover a lot of expenses to ensure proper treatment and care for our rescues."  

While charities and civic organizations know that their local automotive dealer is an integral part of the community and deeply involved in its organization, the dealers often don't receive the recognition they deserve. 

 "The Chicagoland Dealers Care program began in 2008 as an effort to deliver year-round support to local charities and amplify the efforts already put forth by Chicagoland new-car dealers," said John Webb, chairman of the CATA.  

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association has been a longtime supporter of local non-profit organizations. Since 1992, the association has raised more than $36 million dollars for significant Chicago charities during the annual First Look for Charity black-tie event, held the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens to the public.