For the past almost six years, I have groomed the pets of homeless and low income pet owners in Las Vegas for free at monthly and annual events. I see people struggling every day, and especially at these events. I know what my dog means to me, and the struggle and heartache that comes with feeling like you can’t care for them in the way they deserve. I also see how much their pets keep them going and keep them trying to make things better. The primary organization I volunteer through, Street Dogz, helps homeless and low income pet owners with pet food and supplies. They also provide a whole lot more, when funds are available, like vet care, spay and neuter, motel rooms, human supplies, and more. I’ve seen people who have refused assistance for themselves over and over, reach out for help when it’s about their pet, and that lead to them allowing us to provide help for them, too. While Street Dogz is not the only organization providing pet care assistance to people who need it, I’m the only groomer who goes to regular service events at locations that are easily accessible to the homeless community. Unfortunately, problems with my van are threatening to end my ability to provide that service. Last year, I sold my SUV to buy a minivan to accomodate the increasing amount of equipment and supplies I need to take to the events. I’ve accumulated what is essentially a mini pop up grooming salon that can set up anywhere there’s a water spigot and an electric outlet. Everything stays in the van between events as they are too frequent to justify unloading! Unfortunately, despite trying to be very careful, I got fleeced a bit on the van I bought. The transmission is on its way out, it burns thru oil like crazy with no visible leak, the front end suspension is dodgy, and the insult to injury was when AC went out in January after some regular maintenance. It will not last much longer, is not worth the cost to fully repair it, and without a replacement I will have to stop offering free grooming. I wish I were better able to just go get something, but like a lot of people I’ve had a few set backs over the past few years and recovering financially has been slow. I was encouraged by others to start a campaign here after trying to find someone selling a used van who would take very low monthly payments, to no avail. I work full time managing and grooming at a local salon, but after two years of increases, more than half my monthly income goes to rent (and I’m still paying way less than I would if I tried to move!). If I can secure a replacement van, I’m going to donate my current van for what ever life it has left to someone who needs it. I know so many people are struggling, and I’m no more deserving of this kind of help than anyone else, and less so than some, but I would be eternally grateful for it, and would continue to pay it forward. I’ve included pics of the van loaded up, some that show the set up at the events, and some before and after of some of the dogs I’ve groomed at the events. Thank you for taking the time to read this! And please share!