• GOFUNDME PROJECT

• REENTRY AND TRANSITIONING FOR SUCCESS

“Helping a Hardworking C.D.L. Driver Rebuild After Reentry”

Hello, my name is JOHN RAY BENAVIDES, and I am currently in a Federal Halfway House in Brownsville, Texas. I am scheduled for release on February 14, 2025, which is ten days from now. I’m in need of financial assistance as a temporary relief for a successful return to my community.

I was incarcerated for a little over 2 years, and during that time, a lot happened while I was gone. One major factor that has affected me in a negative way is that I lost my mother, who was my biggest supporter and the person who always believed in my potential to turn my life around. Her passing has been a profound turning point for me. She always encouraged me to pursue my career in commercial truck driving and told me to never give up, despite the challenges I have faced throughout my life. Right before my incarceration, we were working on a plan to start up an owner-operated trucking company. Unfortunately, there was an interruption in that blessing, and as a result, I was incarcerated. She passed away a year later. She did not get to see me fulfill our dream of successfully starting up a trucking company.

While I was in prison, no one told me that she had passed away. I had to find out by asking my case manager to do a Google search for her name. She returned a few minutes later with a printout of her obituary. This news stung so bad that I wrestled with my LORD, emotionally distraught with no help in sight. I assessed my situation, wanting to mourn so badly but was unable to due to my prison environment. I had two choices: I could mope and feel sorry for myself, or I could work on myself to better myself.

Her belief in me is now my driving force. I am determined and committed to honoring her memory by rebuilding my professional career, staying on a positive path, and proving that people can and do change.

Sometimes in life, we go through things that break us, shattering every ounce of pride and negative aspect in our being. We are left with no other alternative but to turn to a higher being for trust that they can provide for us. The only requirements are faith and action. For me personally, this higher being is “YAHWEH,” JESUS CHRIST, and THE HOLY SPIRIT. They had to break me completely so that I could learn to let go of myself and watch them work in my life.

After completing my time, I’m ready to return to the career I know best—commercial driving in the oilfields. As an experienced frac water hauler with a Class A CDL, I’m prepared to work hard and prove wrong all those who doubted my ability to succeed.

Essential Startup Costs:

1. DOT Medical Card Renewal ($120)

2. H2S Safety Certification ($85)

3. Jacket ($100)

4. Steel Toe Boots ($150)

5. High Impact Work Gloves ($45)

6. Safety Vest ($35)

7. Respirator ($75)

8. Hard Hat ($45)

9. One Week Meal Vouchers ($100)

10. Cell phone bill for one month of service ($65)

11. Birth Certificate ($22)

12. Driver's license Reinstatement Fee ($11)

13. H2S Monitor ($150)

14. Initial Transportation to Permian Basin ($100)

15. Temporary Housing Deposit ($300)

16. 2 pairs of Jeans ($80)

17. 3 Work Casual Shirts ($60)

18. 1 Fire Resistant Jacket ($250)

19. 4 Pairs of Socks ($20)

20. 3 Underwear ($30)

21. FR coveralls (2 sets) – ($300)

22. FR Pants (2 pairs) – ($180)

23. FR Long Sleeve Shirts (2) – ($160)

Basic Hygiene (1 Week)

24. 1 Deodorant ($5)

25. Toothbrush and Toothpaste ($8)

26. Bodywash and/or Bar Soap ($10)

27. Razors w/Refills ($15)

28. Sanitation Wipes ($5)

29. Laundry Detergent ($12)

30. Bath Towel Wash Cloth ($15)

31. Bluetooth Headset for Safe Driving ($45)

32. Phone Car Charger ($15)

33. Backup Wired Earbuds ($20)

34. Cell Phone Vehicle Mount ($25)

35. Insulated Water Jug ($35)

36. LED Flashlight ($20)

37. Small First Aid Kit ($15)

38. Safety Sunglasses ($25)

39. Work Belt ($20)

40. Thermal Underlayers Set ($40)

41. FR Rain Coat / Gear ($175)

42. Insulated Lunch Box ($25)

43. Hard Hat Flashlight Mount ($40)

44. Heavy-Duty Military-Style Duffle Bag ($100)

I asked myself if I am asking for too much or if I am being reasonable? To be honest, every which way I thought of came back with the same response. That is that my request is totally reasonable, and this is why: This comprehensive list represents everything needed to start work safely and professionally in the oilfields. Every item serves a specific purpose, meeting both safety regulations and practical needs for year-round work in the Permian Basin’s challenging conditions. While the total may seem substantial, it represents a complete investment in my future's success and safety.

The oilfields demand proper equipment; there’s no cutting corners when it comes to safety and professionalism. This one-time investment will enable me to hit the ground running, working safely in all conditions, and fulfill my commitment to rebuilding my life the right way, crime-free.

Your support will help me become a productive member of the workforce, and I believe I have covered every aspect needed.

• Required communication tools for work

• DOT Compliance

• Basic Safety Equipment

• Weather Protection

• Emergency Preparedness

Donors, keep in mind that this request for assistance is reasonable when considering:

1. Safety Requirements:

All FR gear and safety equipment are mandatory by law; this is not optional. Cutting corners on safety equipment is both illegal and dangerous. Companies require this gear before I can start work.

2. Industry Standards:

Oilfield work has strict safety protocols. Most companies expect workers to arrive properly equipped. These are standard startup costs in the industry.

3. Investment Perspective:

The average oilfield driver salary is roughly $70,000 - $100,000 plus a year. My requested goal is $3,500, and this is roughly about one week's pay in most cases. This is a one-time investment in my future.

4. Practical Considerations:

These are essential items, not luxuries. Each item has a specific purpose and need. Prices listed are modest/mid-range, not high-end. Many workers spend more than this on initial setups.

I am trying to demonstrate careful planning and responsibility. I understand the industry’s requirements. I am committed to doing things properly, focusing on safety and professionalism.

Your support will help me become a potential employee that stands out from the rest and ready to work. But most importantly, your help will help me keep a promise I made to my mother. I am determined to make this transition a successful one and prove that with the right support, positive change is possible.

Every dollar will directly support my transition, helping me avoid potential homelessness and return to stable employment. This is not a long-term ask. It’s a hand-up to help me restart my professional career in the oilfields. These items are critical not just for safety and employability in the oil and gas industry, but for maintaining professional standards and dignity as I rebuild my life. I would appreciate any extra help in the event that I might incur any unexpected expanse.

Thank you, respectfully submitted;

JOHN RAY BENAVIDES

FEBRUARY 05, 2025