My name is Krishna Alexandra, and I’m reaching out because my family and I are going through a really tough time. I’m in my third year at yeshiva, studying to become both a rabbi and a cantor, and I work as a professional chorister at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington DC. I’m about to begin a new position as choir director and support clergy at Temple Solel in Bowie, MD. Having a reliable car is absolutely essential for me to get to work, school, and medical appointments, as well as to take care of everyday needs like getting groceries.

Just two weeks ago, while I was on my way to a Jewish clergy conference as a student participant and kosher supervisor, our brakes went out. We had to spend our savings on emergency repairs. Now, we’re facing even more car trouble that we simply can’t afford to fix. Because I’m disabled, public transportation just doesn’t meet my needs, so without our car, we’re really stuck. Right now, we haven’t even been able to get the car to a mechanic, so we don’t know exactly what repairs are needed or how much it will cost. We’re hoping it’s just the rear left brake, but with an older car that’s seen a lot of wear and tear, we’re just trying to keep it running as long as we can. Replacing it isn’t an option for us right now.

To make matters even more challenging, my work at the church is on a break from the beginning of January until the middle of February, leaving us with very little income right now. We are struggling to make ends meet, facing food insecurity, and living paycheck to paycheck—but at the moment, there is no paycheck. The car repairs are urgent, and without them, we cannot meet our basic needs or get to my new job at Temple Solel next week.

Any support you can offer would truly mean survival for us. Your help will allow us to repair our car, regain our independence, and get through this incredibly tough period. We are deeply grateful for any kindness and generosity you can share.