Two local auto repair shops are helping to put the brakes on breast cancer.

Lake Gaston Auto & RV outside Littleton and Roanoke Valley Auto Works in Roanoke Rapids are participating in Brakes for Breasts as part of not only Car Care Awareness Month but Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“We are more than happy to provide this service and be a part of this program which offers the chance to help so many,” said Mark Perkins, president of the shops.

During this month, customers coming in for brake service will get brake pads for free while the shop makes a 10 percent donation from the brake jobs which will go towards research for the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund.

The Cleveland Clinic has developed a vaccine which has proven 100 percent effective in preventing breast cancer in laboratory animals.

Shawn Perkins, vice president of the companies, said while they wait for vendors to sign off on participating in the fundraiser, “We are going to donate new brake pads. The labor on any other brake component that needs to replaced, 10 percent of the money will go to Brakes for Breasts at the end of the month.”

While she has not personally had family members with breast cancer, Shawn said, “Cancer has greatly affected our family so any way we can help find a cure or prevent any form of cancer we are happy to fund. With this being Car Care Awareness Month which is strong on preventive maintenance the two just meshed well together.”

Said Shawn: “This is one of the few programs where the money is going directly to research.”

For more information contact Lake Gaston Auto & RV at 252-629-2353 or Roanoke Valley Auto Works at 252-410-0557.