Hello, my name is Lourdes. I'm an indigenous Air Force veteran (Gulf War) and I'm a Lyft driver. I have a disabled son whom I care for (he is on the spectrum and cannot work).

In August, I was involved in a car accident where my car was sandwiched on the interstate, on my personal time. For insurance purposes, the car was totaled, but I was not able to surrender it and have managed to get minor repairs and am still able to drive it. A personal injury claim to cover any medical expenses is still in process, but will not yield any compensation above and beyond those bills/expenses. The accident caused whiplash, concussion, herniated discs, and damage to kidneys and bladder. I am currently in physical therapy and treatment at my VA; however, I have suffered more than 60% income loss due to injuries.

On top of everything else, Lyft is changing their year requirements in my state and I was recently informed that I will be deplatformed in January because my car is one year too old to qualify now. I am urgently seeking help in being able to get a newer car so I can continue driving. There are several available in my area in good condition that cost $6-7000. I cannot finance anything, although I looked into it. I also cannot afford Lyft's car lease option with Hertz, which would take up 1/2 to 2/3 of my income, even if I were able to drive full time. I am continuing to drive but urgently seeking assistance in this. Our situation here has become critical and I am hoping to be able to get into a new car by the end of the year.

If it were just myself, possibly getting into a homeless shelter would help; however, my son cannot care for himself. He is an adult and we receive no state assistance of any type. I'd like to ask for help in keeping my small family together, alive, and well. I wish other aid-seekers the best of luck in your own situations, as well.