Yesterday night, a terrible storm came through our sleepy town. In minutes, sheets of rain and tremendous wind gusts blew an enormous tree down directly onto my truck and my partner's vehicle as well. My truck is completely totalled-the top of it is split in two. My truck is my livelihood--as a contract carpenter and handyperson, I use it to carry tools and materials. I've been going to school full time at Tompkins Cortland Community College (in Cortland, about a 45 minute drive from my house) and contracting out to make ends meet. I couldn't afford full auto insurance and unfortunately gutted my insurance recently as a result--leaving me with no options to cover the cost of a new vehicle.

This is incredibly stressful. I don't like having to ask for help, and I wouldn't unless I needed to--I definitely need community help to get past this. Any funds generated from this GoFundMe will go to costs associated with removing the truck and taking it to a scrap yard, and buying a new vehicle to assist me in work and school. I am forever grateful to anyone who has the means to contribute to this or share with your networks. This is a difficult time for many, and I know how hard it is to extend aid beyond your own needs. Please know that I am thankful for your time and attention, and looking to pay it forward in whatever way I can.