Hello, My name is Serina Ortiz and I am fundraising to buy another car to replace my car that was stolen so I can travel to work and school. Please read my story and share.

On March 20th, 2023, four days before my 18th birthday, my car was stolen from my workplace while I was working in Deer Park Long Island. A witness and cameras caught a man entering the restaurant I work, opened the staff closet and removed my jacket that had my wallet, driver's license, bank cards, money, and car keys inside the pocket. The man then walks out and gets into my vehicle and drives away. Inside my vehicle I had bags of new clothes with tags I just purchased along with other personal items. Police were called and a report was done but the vehicle and person responsible has not been found yet. I went home that night and I cried. I was up all-night feeling upset, sad, anxious, broken-hearted and so many mixed emotions. I worked so hard to buy my car, and it got taken away. The following day after the incident, police found a bag of clothes with my license by a dumpster in in the Wyandanch train station in Long Island. However, no other items or car were found.

I’m a very hard worker, working two part-time jobs making minimum wage while maintaining a high average as a high school student. I’ve been working since I was 15 years old, which allowed me to save enough money over the past few years to finally purchase and buy on my own, a 2009 Honda Accord for $8,000. I was so proud of myself and how hard I worked. I sacrificed hanging out with friends, attending certain events and dedicating my time to work so that I can save enough money for this car. I use my car to drive to school, work both jobs, pick up my little brother from school, and see my family and friends. I graduate from high school this year and I’m going to need a car for college. It took me 2 years to save enough to buy my car. Even if I work more hours, I won’t be able to save enough money in time to buy a car before college starts. The thief didn’t steal my car, he stole my independence. I will have to rely and depend on others to get me to work and school and may only be able to work based on other's schedules and when they are available. We called my car insurance and unfortunately, we didn’t have theft coverage, just basic which would not cover the cost toward the value or money lost. I would have to buy another car.

I have faith that there are still good caring people in the world. I’m grateful and blessed to have such wonderful, loving friends and family who have been supportive, and given me encouragement and motivation. I am the last person to ask for help which is why I feel deeply humbled by writing this request. I’ve been praying to God to help me, and kindly ask for everyone to pray for me as well. I would greatly appreciate any donations regardless of the amount. Every dollar helps, any share or repost will be greatly appreciated so I can get as close to my goal as possible and use it toward buying another car.

To the thief who stole my car, wallet and other personal belongings. I want you to know that though I was heartbroken, scared, upset, stress and in tears over this, but you did not break me. You made me stronger and I will work harder and not allow this to hold me back. I have goals and dreams that I will accomplish and succeed in, with or without a car. I will pray for you and hope that you don’t do this to others.

Thank you everyone in advance for your time and consideration. Any donations are greatly appreciated and will go a long way. Please share and repost.

Serina Ortiz