Warwick, R.I. – On Tuesday, U.S. Army veteran Richard Gagne was handed the keys to a brand‑new car at the Progressive Insurance claims office in Warwick. The giveaway is part of the 14th annual Keys to Progress program, a charitable initiative launched by Progressive in 2013 to ensure veterans have dependable transportation for medical appointments, shopping, fishing and everyday independence.
Program background and national reach
Progressive’s Keys to Progress program was created to address a common challenge faced by many veterans: the lack of reliable, affordable transportation after leaving military service. By providing a vehicle, the program helps veterans maintain self‑sufficiency and stay connected to essential services. This year, the company announced that more than 100 veterans nationwide will receive vehicles through the program, underscoring its growing impact.
Local ceremony and community support
The ceremony took place at the Warwick Progressive Claims office, just one day before Veterans’ Day, allowing the community to celebrate Gagne’s service alongside his new means of mobility. Local officials and Progressive representatives praised the partnership, noting that the donation reflects both corporate responsibility and the town’s commitment to honoring those who have served.
Why reliable transportation matters for veterans
Transportation is a critical factor in a veteran’s ability to access health care, maintain employment, and stay engaged with family and community activities. Without a reliable vehicle, many veterans face barriers to attending medical appointments, which can affect both physical health and overall well‑being. By gifting a new car, Progressive helps remove that obstacle for Gagne and the dozens of other veterans who will benefit from the program this year.
Community response
Warwick residents expressed gratitude for the giveaway, highlighting how such gestures reinforce the town’s tradition of supporting its veterans. Local veterans’ groups welcomed the news, emphasizing that the program aligns with the values of service, family, and personal liberty that are central to the community’s identity.
Looking ahead
Progressive plans to continue expanding the Keys to Progress initiative, with the goal of reaching more veterans in the coming years. The company’s ongoing commitment demonstrates how private‑sector programs can complement public efforts to care for those who have defended the nation’s freedoms.
For veterans in Warwick and beyond, the new vehicle represents more than just transportation—it symbolizes a continued partnership between the community, local businesses, and those who have served the United States.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
