My name is Marquis Johnson, and I’ve been working hard as an Uber and Lyft driver while preparing to start a cybersecurity bootcamp. Life in Los Angeles hasn’t been easy—after the LA fires last year, I lost my home and have been living in my car ever since. Despite the challenges, I was finally getting back on my feet, saving up for a new place in Newport Beach, and feeling hopeful about the future.

Everything changed on January 20th. While driving through downtown LA, a white truck ran a red light and crashed into me, totaling my car. The impact sent me flying 20-30 feet, and I’m grateful to be alive. The police and several witnesses were there, and everything was caught on dashcam. Losing my car meant losing my home and my only way to earn a living. With no family nearby, I’m facing the real possibility of sleeping on the streets. I’m originally from New York and came to California to break the cycle for my family and build a better life. Now, at 29 years old, I’m struggling to find shelter because most programs have age limits or income restrictions. My birthday is coming up on January 27th, and I never imagined I’d be in this situation.

I don’t need much—just enough for a down payment on a new car so I can get back to work, have a safe place to sleep, and start saving for an apartment again. I’m determined to earn my way back, but right now, I need a little help to get through this tough time.