16-05-2025
PHS senior Erica Martinez wins Toyota Corolla from Palestine Toyota
Palestine senior Erica Martinez said God answered her prayers Monday at Wildcat Stadium.
'I had only shot to get picked and I was shaking the whole time. I prayed the whole time, so God really did this for me,' Martinez said. 'In the beginning, I figured I wasn't getting the car but when it became a 50-50 shot, I thought I might have a chance.'
Martinez had a one-in-10 chance of winning a Toyota Corolla during the 2025 Driven to Succeed program, sponsored by Palestine Toyota and Kim's Convenience Store. She was the ninth name drawn from Palestine Toyota owner Chuck Eldridge.
'This year is the third faithful year to not only do it here but across town so a special shoutout to Michael Armstrong, Kim Cole and the family for what they do during this event,' Eldridge said.
Kim's provided $1,500 for fuel in gift cards to the winner of the car.
Eldridge said giving away the cars brings him back to his childhood when it comes to the program.
'We give all credit to God, and seeing that makes my heart full,' Eldridge said. 'It gives me a sense of hope because I didn't have a car to go to college when I was in high school and so that is part of why the program lives so close to my heart. I know that every single year, the Lord sends us someone that needs the car. I couldn't be happier for her and her family.'
Larissa Loveless, public relations director for Palestine Independent School District said Martinez getting the car embodied what the program means overall.
'The recent Driven to Succeed car giveaway by Palestine Toyota — awarding a vehicle and $1,500 in fuel to PHS senior Erica Martinez — is more than just a generous act,' Loveless said. 'It's a bold, beautiful example of what happens when businesses, schools, families and communities come together with a shared purpose: to celebrate and uplift student success.'
Students become part of the program with perfect attendance throughout the year. During each six weeks, students have a chance to get a ping pong ball submitted for a higher chance at selection.
'At Palestine ISD, we know that positive messages are most powerful when they come from every direction — from the classroom, from home and from the wider community,' Loveless said. 'That's what makes this moment so impactful. It tells our students: your hard work is noticed, your future is worth investing in, and we are all behind you.'
Eldridge said the main message of the Driven to Succeed program is make sure you are in school.
'I got to tell you that the program helps kids understand that being at school helps them to learn,' Eldridge said. 'Also, the perfect attendance is how the schools are funded. Plus it is hard to get an education when you are not sitting in a school house.'
Martinez said she was grateful for the one shot she received at picking the key.
'It means a lot because I don't have a car yet,' Martinez said. 'It is going to help me and my family out. I am very grateful for all of the people who helped me get this far. I am grateful for the community and for them helping to get me this far. God only knows what the future will hold for me.'
Eldridge said the excitement and community support is what keeps the program going strong.
'It makes us want to do this again. When you see the kids interacting together, it is having the best day of her life,' Eldridge said. 'Giving back to the kids is one of the two favorite days for me as a business owner in town. I want to thank Kim's for their loyalty every single year and the community and PISD for helping us do this.'
