Sames Auto Group CEO Evelyn Sames on March 31, 2026, at Sames Honda.
David Gomez Jr. /Laredo Morning Times
President and CEO of Driscoll Health System on March 31, 2026, at Sames Honda.
David Gomez Jr. /Laredo Morning Times
Sames Auto Group leaders and Driscoll Health System administration pose for a photo on March 31, 2026, at Sames Honda.
David Gomez Jr. /Laredo Morning Times
A simple trip to a car dealership this April could help make a difference for children and families across South Texas.
Sames Auto Group launched its “Test Drive for Smiles” campaign, a monthlong initiative that will raise funds for Driscoll Children’s Hospital through community participation.
Article continues below this ad
For every test drive completed in April, the dealership group will donate $10 to the hospital, with a goal of reaching 2,000 test drives across its locations in Laredo, Corpus Christi, McAllen and Harlingen.
The program was announced during an event at Sames Honda, where company leaders and Driscoll officials highlighted the impact the partnership could have on local families.
“This initiative is especially meaningful to me because of my personal connection with Driscoll Children’s Hospital,” said Evelyn Sames, CEO of Sames Auto Group. “Every single test drive represents support for a child, relief for a family, and critical resources that allow Driscoll to continue delivering the care our community depends on.”
Driscoll Children’s Hospital serves a wide South Texas region, providing care to more than 175,000 children. Hospital leaders said community-driven efforts like this help expand services and ensure families can access care closer to home.
Article continues below this ad
Eric Hamon, president and CEO of Driscoll Health System, said the partnership comes as the hospital looks to deepen its presence in Laredo.
“We believe Laredo is a great market, and we want to make a long-term investment here,” Hamon said, noting plans to expand services in the coming years. “Health care is local, and it’s important for families to be able to stay close to home, especially during difficult times.”
Hamon added that future expansions could include specialized services such as pediatric oncology, which currently requires families to travel outside the city.
In addition to raising funds, organizers said the campaign is meant to bring the community together around a shared cause.
Article continues below this ad
“When you get in that vehicle, it’s not just about the vehicle,” Hamon said. “You’re helping out the kids, you’re helping out the community.”
Driscoll officials emphasized that donations support not only hospital care but also outreach efforts in communities like Laredo, including training for local emergency responders and health care providers.
“For some families, it’s harder to smile when a child is sick or injured,” said Jeremy Goodman, director of critical care transport for Driscoll. “These efforts help us provide those smiles back to children and their families.”
Article continues below this ad
Sames Auto Group, founded in 1910 and headquartered in Laredo, said the campaign reflects its ongoing commitment to giving back to the community it serves.
“When you take a test drive this April, it’s more than just a drive,” Sames said. “It’s a chance to change a child’s life.”