For the last 12 years of my life, I have suffered tremendously. Two and a half years ago, I escaped a highly abusive relationship that nearly destroyed my life. I bought a 2001 Honda Odyssey, hoping to sleep in my van until I could find a place somewhere in the state where I could finally feel safe with my young child. Unfortunately, the man I bought it from was a scammer and told me it was a great vehicle, but within a week, my vehicle started smoking and having issues. One terrifying day, I was on the freeway and almost died with my three-year-old child because the wheel completely fell off. My plan to escape and start over went down the drain, and I have been stuck in the state since then.

I've had numerous problems since that point and have had to put so much money and time into this vehicle just to keep it going. Now, new problems are popping up. I took it into the shop because my bald tires kept getting flats, and they told me my vehicle was not safe at all to drive. There is a hole in the axle, which could cause me to lose control of the vehicle, and a major oil leak coming from the engine that could start a fire. Every time I drive it, it gets worse and worse. When I push my foot on the gas, my car rocks violently back and forth. My income is not enough to get my car fixed, and I've been forced to stay in this state where I don't feel safe due to lack of income. I truly do not know what to do. I do not want to have to go back to walking in the rain again with my disabled child.

Having a safe, reliable vehicle would give us a second chance at life. We would be able to travel safely, attend appointments, and feel secure. Please, can you help us fix our vehicle or get a safe, reliable vehicle? Any support would mean the world to us.