Hi, I’m Zoe Harrison, I’m 13, and I’m starting this GoFundMe to help someone who has become a real friend to my family — Joseph Washington.

I met Joseph after my taekwondo class, outside a McDonald’s, seven months ago. Something told me we should help. What started as one meal turned into shared dinners, stories, laughter, and a bond that taught me more about kindness than any lesson in school ever could.

Joseph used to support himself driving for Uber, but while working, his car broke down. The repairs were too expensive, so he sold it — losing both his income and the closest thing he had to a safe place to sleep.

Even now, he still shows humor, generosity, and a sincere, unforgettable smile.

One day he told us a story that changed me:

A few years ago, when Joseph had just $5 to his name, he gave it all to someone battling addiction because he felt called to help. He didn’t know if it would make a difference — he only knew it was the right thing to do. Two years later, he unexpectedly crossed paths with that same person again — clean, rebuilding his life, and walking hand-in-hand with his child. That moment reaffirmed Joseph’s belief that compassion matters, that recovery is possible, and that no act of kindness is ever wasted… even when others might look away.

And it made me think:

If he didn’t give up on someone else, how could we give up on him?

A car won’t just be transportation. It will be:

• A safe place to sleep

• A way to earn income through Uber again

• A real step toward stability and dignity

Joseph didn’t ask us for help. We chose to help because he deserves it. That’s why I started a small business selling snacks and refreshments. Every dollar I made went straight to helping Joseph save for a car so he might have the opportunity to drive for Uber again someday.

Even a small donation can make a big difference. Let’s prove kindness is stronger than hard times.

Thank you so much

Zoe Harrison