During

holiday season, many people's thoughts turn to those who

have slipped through the safety net and are in dire need

of help to have a joyous season.

In Coweta

County, one businessman takes the season to heart by

giving back to the community that has made him a success.

Starting

today, Mike Fitzpatrick Ford Lincoln Mercury will donate

$100 in a program dubbed "Wish Upon a Ford" to

the Coweta County Department of Family and Children

Services for each car he sells between now and Christmas.

Last year,

Fitzpatrick started the same program Dec. 1 and was able

to donate $10,000 to the organization. This year, with an

earlier start, he's hoping to raise $15,000.

The funds

are used to help elderly residents on fixed incomes who

need a little help to be able to stay in their own homes,

along with nearly 170 children in foster care.

The program

also helps families in crisis, who may have lost a job or

have a prolonged illness.

DFACS

director Bill McKorkle said the organization finds these

families in different ways.

"Sometimes

neighbors call, or the police or schools tell us. We've

even gotten tips from the Postal Service," he said.

The money definitely helps many residents have a happier

holiday.

"The

money will be used in so many different ways. It might

provide Christmas presents for a family that would not be

able to have a Christmas, or it might simply keep their

electricity and heat on during the winter months,"

said McKorkle.

When buying

a car, residents can tell the dealer where they would

like their money donated. The options include money for a

teenager who might want to come home, funds for an

elderly person or money for a family in need.

"Without

donations like Mike Fitzpatrick's Wish Upon a Ford, many

people who were helped out last year would not have

received assistance. They depend on these

donations," said McKorkle.