Johnnie's Wheelchair Accessible Van

Our family is deeply grateful for all the family and friends who have loved and supported us through the years. It's humbling to reach back out for help. We are in need of a new wheelchair accessible van for Johnnie. We've looked at vans off and on for over a year now and priced different options for our family. The reality is . . . these vans are super expensive. Period. A brand new accessible van costs between $79,000-84,000!!! Yes, you read that correctly.

We are looking to purchase a used wheelchair accessible van, in good condition and a great working ramp. After patiently waiting, we've found one for $43,000. It's a 2015 Honda Odyssey that's already converted. Never in our wildest dreams, did we imagine spending that kind of money on a vehicle. Especially if it's not an awesome ride! We simply cannot afford the payments on a vehicle in this price range, even with our current trade in. Jeremy and I strive to live modestly in all areas--how we live, what we drive, what we wear--so these numbers cause great anxiety!

We are asking for help to raise money for nearly half the cost of the van, which makes up for the conversion. As it breaks down, the Odyssey itself is valued at $23,000, while the conversion is valued just at $20,000. (I've also included a photo so you can see the actual quote.)

We know how much we are asking and, to be honest, it is very difficult for us. But we need help, and many of you have asked through the years how you can help our family. Sadly, these vans are not accessible to the very people who need them. I encourage you to look at sites like MobilityWorks to see the current costs of vans. To the best of our knowledge, there's not much help in this area from the state. We did apply for help the first time through Johnnie's state waiver. That money is roughly what we get back with trade-in, which will be applied to our next van.

For those of you wondering, "Why a new van when you have one already?" Well, we bought our current van nearly three years ago, and it has not been very kind to us. We would like to go ahead and trade it in before we invest any more money into it.

We've been test driving the Honda over the weekend and praying for incredible wisdom about this purchase. We are confident that if this isn't the best purchase for our family, He will show us. We will be forthright and careful with the funds the Lord provides for Johnnie's van.

I've included a breakdown, in total transparency.

Total cost of the van: $43,766

Chasis Price: $23,250

Conversion Price: $19,740

Tax, Tag, Title Fees: $788

Estimated trade-in value on current van: $18,000-10,000 still owed = $8,000 to be applied

Please feel free to reach out to us personally with any questions!

Thank you seems inadequate. But know that we are deeply grateful.

Jeremy & Cyndi, Noah, Grace, Ruth, & Johnnie