Help Gabriel and Joana Get Back on Their Feet

Hi, my name is Kate, and I’m fundraising for Gabriel and Joana. Last Friday, on my way to work, I noticed a car in the distance that had gone off the road, part way down an embankment. I came across this car accident that shook me to the core. A kind Brazilian man named Gabriel had been driving to Googong for work when he swerved to avoid a kangaroo. His car flipped multiple times, even going over a guard rail. Miraculously, Gabriel survived, but his car is a total write-off.

Gabriel is in Australia on a student visa with his 8-year-old daughter, Joana. He works as a stonemason, providing for his daughter with no family support here. Tragically, Gabriel couldn’t afford car insurance, and in a heartbreaking moment, he declined help from an ambulance because he couldn’t afford it. While he's now recovering at home, bruised and sore, the accident has left him deeply shaken.

Gabriel’s story is one of immense love and sacrifice. Two years ago, he left Joana with her grandmother in Brazil to come to Australia, hoping to build a better life for them. Five months ago, Joana joined him here, bringing him indescribable joy. Gabriel’s daily routine revolves around dropping Joana off at school, working hard to make ends meet, and picking her up after work to spend precious time together. Their weekends are filled with simple pleasures, like visits to public playgrounds, with Joana's favorite being the one in Denman.

However, without a car, Gabriel’s ability to work and care for Joana is severely compromised. He is deeply worried about how they will manage, yet he is incredibly grateful to be alive and able to hold his daughter again.

This GoFundMe page is dedicated to helping Gabriel and Joana get back on their feet. I hope to raise enough funds to buy a second-hand car or, even better, receive a donated vehicle. If a car is donated, all money raised will go towards making their life a little less stressful as they rebuild after this terrifying ordeal.

Gabriel’s dream is to live and raise Joana in Australia, providing her with the opportunities he worked so hard to create. Let’s come together to support this dedicated father and his beautiful daughter.

As Mary MacKillop said, “Never see a need without doing something about it.” If you’re in a position to help, whether big or small, please consider donating or sharing this campaign. If anyone has contacts for a car or ute, please reach out.

Thank you for your kindness and support.