Dear friends, family and neighbors,

I'm coming to you on behalf of my friend and neighbor, Julie, who is extremely reluctant to ask for help.
Her heart always goes out to those in need, but when it comes to herself, it is very difficult for her to reach out.

On January 26, of this year, my friend Julie arrived home with her kids to find an intruder in her home. The intruder was the one related to the Scotts Valley bank robbery incident. He held them at knifepoint, in order to gather the things he found in their home, and then fled in their minivan. He said repeatedly that he would not hurt them, and thankfully he did not.  They are safe and sound, and we're all extremely grateful for that.

On his way off their property, while backing out, he crashed into a tree.  Then, he drove down the mountain road in about 10 minutes, which is a record time on a 5 mile stretch of a windy one and half lane road. Julie got her van back the next day, but it broke down soon after.

The car has an unknown engine problem (smoke coming out of the engine), and Julie had to have it towed back to her house, because she cannot afford the repair.  One of Julie's friends offered to look at it and possibly diagnose it, but she still does not have the money to pay  for repairs. This is her only means of transportation up and down the mountain.

Although still a bit shook up, Julie and her kids are doing well.
However, having to face financial hardship, and possibility of losing the car, makes it difficult for Julie to meet the needs of her family, at this time. 

I am asking for donations to help Julie and her family, and ANY amount is greatly appreciated.  Thank you, in advance, for your support. 

With love,

Silvia