Need help getting a reliable vehicle

So we have one car that will not start at all and another thats a ticking time bomb. The motor is about to crash because the exhaust fumes are getting into the coolant system, therfore its only a matter of time. We have found a few vehicles that are right around 1500. With the weather getting colder we need a reliable vehicle to get Aiden to school and everyone else to work. Anything helps, I know that this is a difficult time for everyone so if anything we could use some prayers. Thanks everyone.
Heather, Todd and Aiden