Hello, my name is Darel, and I’m asking for help during one of the most difficult rebuilding periods of my life.

I’m currently trying to raise $3,000 or more to cover critical car repairs and to help me secure stable housing so I can work consistently and move forward independently.

After being released from prison, I’ve worked hard to take responsibility for my situation and meet every requirement placed on me. I have paid over $7,900 in court fines, probation costs, and mandatory rehabilitation classes—entirely through side jobs and temporary work. I didn’t receive ongoing financial support, and every payment came from my own effort. While organizations like Goodwill helped in small ways, the majority of the burden was mine.

At this time, I still owe:

• $550 in probation fees

• $286 in court fees

These remaining obligations have drained what little savings I had and left me without funds to repair my vehicle or secure housing.

Transportation Crisis

My only vehicle, a 2008 Chevy Suburban, has a blown head gasket and failed lifters. The estimated repair cost is approximately $3,580. Without a reliable vehicle, getting to work, interviews, and housing opportunities has become extremely difficult—especially since many jobs available to me require dependable transportation.

Housing Instability

I was previously staying with an ex-spouse, whom I helped financially when they were securing housing. Unfortunately, I was later asked to leave unexpectedly, leaving me homeless again. Since then, I’ve been moving from couch to couch with friends and family when possible. I also lost my storage unit and all of my personal belongings while incarcerated because I had no way to continue paying for it.

Currently, I help care for my disabled grandmother, who is on end-of-life support, in exchange for a place to sleep at night. While I’m grateful, this is not a permanent or stable housing solution.

Employment Efforts

I actively apply for work daily and take any side jobs I can find. I was recently hired by J.B. Hunt as a last-mile delivery driver assistant, but after four days, I was informed that my background did not clear and I was dismissed. This has been a repeated challenge, even when I’m willing and ready to work.

Despite these setbacks, I continue searching for background-friendly employment, working side gigs, and doing everything possible to rebuild my life honestly and responsibly.

How Funds Will Be Used

Donations will go toward:

• Critical car repairs so I can work and attend job opportunities

• Securing stable housing (private landlord, deposits, or short-term stability)

• Remaining probation and court fees to stay fully compliant

This is not a request for long-term support—this is a request for a chance to regain stability, work consistently, and stand on my own.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser means more than you know. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you’re able to offer.