Mama Needs A Car

My name is Charlene Gagnon and I am a local activist in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada and a single (co-parent) mom of 2 dependent, autistic, teenage boys (15 and 18).  I am currently self-employed/unemployed, with about 90% of my income going to pay rent and keep my enormous boys fed.  Although I am very good at asking for things for other people, it is difficult for me to ask for help myself... so this is me reaching out in a time of need.  

I am trying to raise $3000 so I can buy a decent car for the summer and get it insured for the year.  My boys require 24 hour supervision and attention.  A safe and reliable car opens the world of possibility in their care and development. 

My car died in February, and I have been trying to make do with rentals, loaners and drives from friends... but not having a car of my own has added a significant amount of stress on my life: 1) it is costing me a lot more money in taxis and rentals now that the summer is here 2) it is causing myself and my kids anxiety beause we can no longer freely visit our safe-havens, family and friends who live outside of town; and 3) it is causing custody issues with my ex who is getting stressed about always being the one who has to drive.  Additionally, not having a car prohibits me from participating in markets and sales, which can also contribute to my family's overall well-being.

It feels really wierd not being able to solve a problem for myself, and having to reach out in this way for financial support.  However, now is not the time for pride.  A good friend who convinced me to try this said, "This *is* you solving the problem for yourself."

I would be ever so thankful for any contribution, no matter how small.  I hate the idea of taking something for nothing, so I have set up thank you gifts for different donation levels with things that I make and credit for my secondhand (mostly) bookstore.