My name is Kiki Reynolds, I am originally from Virginia, a little town outside of Lynchburg in Evington Virginia. I was on my way back home after living in Texas for a few years and found myself laid off in December due to health issues I'm struggling with; and recently evicted after being home to me for close to 5 years; the unemployment I received was utilized fully last month. I have found myself stranded in Strawberry Plains TN just outside Knoxville area. I am about 4.5 hrs from making it Home to VA. I'm asking for a little help during this tough time. My car—a 2004 Toyota Camry—broke down, and after having it looked at by a trusted mechanic, here at H & H Auto garage, found there was water where water shouldn't be, a damaged hose as the motor had completely failed and needed replaced.

Right now, I’m stuck without a way to even provide shelter for myself as all funds have been absorbed for food and gas. I rely on my car for everything—especially won't be able getting to and from work so I can get back on my feet again. This unexpected breakdown has left me feeling stressed and overwhelmed, and I just don’t have the funds to cover such a major repair on my own.

The couple that stopped and checked on me she knew a local mechanic Cory and you can tell he has a good heart and he's really trying to help the best he can with what he has. They have a salvage yard, and wouldn't you know it he did actually have a Toyota Camry motor and was able to put that in. He got the bill down to only charging me $2,700 for that and the labor, and it also includes $150 fee for towing it where I was about 10 minutes away to his garage. They were ever-so kind as to pay the tow bill and add that; so I didn't have any expense up front as I didn't have any to give.

As I am stranded far away from home and I do not know anyone in Tennessee, some wonderful brothers and sisters in a local congregation here put me up in a hotel for the week. Although my car is ready to go now as soon as I can get the funds together, he asks that I put "something" down and they will work with me.

I'm trying to raise $3000 to cover the $2700 bill and a little extra for food and gas until I reach Virginia.

My goal is to start work immediately somewhere perhaps reaching out to people I've worked for in the past where I am rehireable. I also am intending on enrolling back into College part-time once Home .

I know times are hard for everyone, and it’s not easy to ask for help—but if you’re able to contribute even $5 dollars, or share this with others, it would mean so much to me. Every little bit adds up and brings me one step closer to getting back on the road.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and love. I truly appreciate each and every one of you.

With gratitude,

KiKi Reynolds