Hi, my name is Sylvia, and I’m traveling this journey with my little green-cheek conure, Tootles — my companion, my emotional support, and the tiny heartbeat that keeps me grounded.
Recently, through the kindness of others and the encouragement of my online community The Campfire Tribe, I was finally able to get a 2006 Chevy Express 3500 van. This isn’t just a vehicle… it’s my home. It’s my safe place. It’s where I sleep, where I heal, and where I’m rebuilding my life one day at a time.
But now I’m facing a very real and painful struggle:
The $500 monthly van payment is more than I can keep up with on my limited income.
After medical needs, daily expenses, and basic survival, the math simply doesn’t work. I’m doing everything I can — TikTok Lives, content creation, selling digital items, cutting expenses down to nothing — but it still falls short.
On top of the payments, there are urgent needs I can’t ignore:
• A 12-volt refrigerator to safely store food
• A Little Buddy heater & propane for cold Flagstaff nights
• A few essential items for safe van living and repairs
I’m doing the best I can, but some months it feels like I’m hanging on by a thread. And the fear of losing my van home — the one stable thing I have — is overwhelming.
If you would like to support in other ways
I’ve added my Amazon wishlist, TikTok, and other ways to help or follow my journey all in one place:
Even if you cannot donate, sharing this GoFundMe or my Linktree is a blessing. Every share helps me reach someone who might be able to help me stay safe and keep my van.
Thank you for reading my story, for caring, and for supporting me and Tootles on this difficult but hopeful road.
From my heart — every mile of help truly counts. ❤️
— Sylvia & Tootles
ORIGINAL STORY
Hello, my name is Sylvia, and I’m 67 years old, living on a low fixed income.
Since May, my van has been more than transportation—it’s been my home.
Sadly, it broke down beyond affordable repair. I’m currently staying with my daughter in the Flagstaff, Arizona area, but this is only a short-term arrangement. I need to get back into a reliable van so I can have a safe place to live and regain my independence.
Because of medical bills, my credit is poor and I can’t qualify for a loan. My small monthly income barely covers essentials, so saving for another vehicle just hasn’t been possible.
I’m asking for help to raise $5,000 to purchase a dependable used van that can serve as both transportation and my home. Every contribution—no matter the size—brings me one step closer to stability. Sharing this page with others is also a huge help.
If someone has a reliable van they’d be willing to sell on payments, I could manage $200 per month toward the cost. Any leads or offers are truly appreciated.
Thank you for reading my story and for any kindness you can offer. Your support will help me regain the simple dignity of a safe, independent home on wheels.
With gratitude,
Sylvia