About this fundraiser

Help a Single Mom Get Her Family’s Only Vehicle Back

My name is Karli, and asking for help is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I have always tried to find a way to handle things on my own, but after nearly three years of struggling, I have reached a point where I need the kindness and support of others.

I am a single mother raising three children, and I also help care for my granddaughter. My family depends on me for everything, and not having a reliable vehicle has made everyday life incredibly difficult. Simple things that many people take for granted—doctor appointments, grocery shopping, school activities, family emergencies, and visiting loved ones—have become major challenges.

In September 2022, I purchased a 2013 Ford Escape because I wanted dependable transportation for my family. I was told it had a brand-new engine with a three-year warranty and that I would not need to purchase an additional warranty because most major repairs would be covered. About eight months later, without any warning, the transmission completely failed.

I was quoted around $6,000 for a replacement transmission, an expense I simply could not afford. At the time, my primary income was the survivor benefits my children receive after the loss of their father, which totaled about $1,300 a month. Later, I was fortunate enough to find a full-time work-from-home job, but because my income increased, the assistance benefits that had helped support my family ended. Even while working full time, after paying for housing, utilities, food, and caring for my children, there has never been enough left over to save thousands of dollars for this repair.

Even though my vehicle has not been drivable, I have continued making the $488 monthly payment because I did not want to lose the only vehicle my family has. I have been paying for a car that I cannot use, holding onto hope that someday I would be able to repair it.

Recently, after the dealership changed ownership, I reached out and explained my situation. They were incredibly understanding and offered to tow my vehicle to their shop, which is two hours away, and replace the transmission at a deeply discounted price. My vehicle has now been in their shop for about three months, waiting for me to come up with the remaining balance.

The funds raised through this GoFundMe will be used to pay the $3,700 repair bill needed to replace the transmission and get my family’s only vehicle back on the road. Every dollar donated will go directly toward bringing our vehicle home.

I need these funds as soon as possible. The repair has already been completed, and I am afraid that if I cannot pay the balance, I could face additional storage fees or other complications. After waiting nearly three years for an opportunity to repair my vehicle, I do not want to lose this chance.

This fundraiser is not just about fixing a car. It is about helping a mother provide stability for her family. Having dependable transportation would give us freedom, security, and peace of mind. It would allow me to better care for my children and granddaughter and remove a burden that has weighed heavily on our lives for years.

Your support, whether through a donation, a share, or a prayer, would mean more to me than words can express. It would remind me that even during life’s hardest moments, there are compassionate people willing to help a family they have never met.

I know times are difficult for many people, and I never expect anyone to give what they cannot afford. If you are able to help, no matter how small the amount, please know that it will make a real difference in our lives. If you cannot donate, sharing our story or keeping us in your thoughts and prayers would be just as appreciated.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any kindness you can offer. My family and I will forever be grateful for the love, generosity, and support that helps us finally get back on the road.

Organized by

Karli McBride

Wichita, KS, USA

Organizer