Help Me Save My Bus Home After Engine Fire Damage

Hi, my name is Matt, some of you may know me as Graee, or Grey. I’m asking for help during the hardest chapter of my life.

Earlier this year, I lost my housing and was forced to rethink everything. I invested what little I had into an old school bus — a 1990 International 3800 — and began the slow, difficult process of restoring it and turning it into a place I could live in safely and independently.

I’ve poured over $5,000 into this so far — everything from interior work to engine maintenance. It hasn’t been easy, but the progress has kept me going.

But now, just as I was finally getting it road-ready, disaster hit.

What went wrong:

While the bus was parked under trees, dry leaves gathered in the engine bay without me realizing it. When I started the engine, those leaves caught fire from the heat. The fire wasn’t massive, but it was enough to melt the fuel return lines — and now the bus is leaking fuel and won’t run.

This isn’t just a repair. It’s a full stop — and I don’t have the funds or time to deal with it alone.

⏳ Why this is urgent:

The bus is parked on a friend’s rural property, but due to changes in their situation, they’ve asked me to move it. I now have 3 days to either get it running or get it off the land, or I risk losing everything I’ve put into this.

Right now, I’m completely broke. I don’t have enough to pay a mobile mechanic, replace the parts, or cover towing costs. I’ve hit a breaking point and I’m out of options.

Your donation will help cover:

My goal is $800 to cover the bare minimum and keep this project from ending before it’s even begun.

Why this matters:

This bus isn’t just a vehicle. It’s my home, my future, and my best shot at stability. I’ve put my heart, sweat, and every dollar I had into it — and I’m asking for help only because I’ve hit a wall I can’t climb alone.

If you’re able to give, thank you. If you can share this with someone who might understand — thank you even more.

Every dollar counts. Every share helps. This bus is my home.

— Matt