MORROW, Ga. — Ludacris is showing plenty of heart.
The 31-year-old star gave away 20 used cars to people in need on Sunday as part of a joint effort between his Ludacris Foundation and the Nissan South auto dealership in Morrow, Ga.
The promotion, titled “Stars for Cars – The LudaDay Giveaway,” encouraged people to write a one-page essay outlining how a set of wheels could benefit them during these tough economic times.
“People are getting laid off, and now are looking for jobs,” Ludacris told the Associated Press. “To be efficient, you need some transportation of your own to get there. That’s why I wanted to give back to those who need it.”
Nearly 4,000 people submitting essays, many of which drew the Grammy-winning singer to tears. One such story was by a man named Mading Duor, who wrote about moving to the United States six years ago after his mother, father, and five brothers and sisters were killed in Sudan. A few years ago, Duor suffered another tragedy when his son was killed by a drunken driver in Atlanta.
“His story touched my heart,” Ludacris said. “He’s endured so much in his life and he’s still here standing. I’m very proud to have helped him.”
Duor said he was overjoyed when he picked up the keys to his Nissan Maxima.
Said Duor: “When I look at my new car, I say to myself, ‘Is this really happening?’ “
Ludacris, whose real name is Christopher Bridges, is currently starring alongside Gerard Butler in the action film “Gamer,” which opened in theaters this weekend.
