A Call for Community Support

My name is Willie Stewart, a lifelong Alamedan born in Oakland , who has proudly served our Island community as a Paraprofessional for the past 30 years. Supporting students and families has been my life’s work, and it has been an honor to give back to the community I love.

I am also physically challenged and a full‑time caregiver to my developmentally delayed brother, who has been seriously ill for a long time. He has been in and out of the hospital and rehabilitation facilities, and his care requires constant attention, transportation, and the ability to respond quickly in emergencies.

Recently, my situation became even more difficult when my only means of transportation — a 23‑year‑old used car — finally gave out. Losing my car has placed an enormous burden on my life during an already overwhelming time. As many know, it is incredibly difficult to make ends meet on a paraprofessional’s salary, and replacing a reliable vehicle is simply not possible for me on my own.

I am now in urgent need of a dependable car — one that does not require constant maintenance — so I can:

Commute to work consistently

Care for my brother

Pick up his medications

Rush him to the emergency room when necessary

I am humbly asking for support from my community. Any assistance — whether through donations, resources, or connections — would mean more to me than I can express. A reliable car would not only restore my independence, but also allow me to continue working and caring for my brother safely and with dignity.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your kindness, compassion, and support during this challenging time would truly change our lives.

The photo is not the actual but the same model.

With deep gratitude,

Willie Stewart

Alameda