NEBRASKA

ME AND MY HUSBAND HAVE BEEN MARRIED FOR ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF NOW. HE'S BEEN THE BEST PART OF MY LIFE. UNFORTUNATELY WE HAVE BEEN STRUGGLING. WE HAVE TO KID'S LIVE IN THE BASEMENT OF MY PARENTS HOUSE. MY HUSBAND WORKS VERY HARD AND AT ONE POINT AND TIME HAD TWO FULL TIME JOBS. THAT COULD ONLY LAST SO LONG TILL ANYBODY'S BODY AND EMOTIONS GET WORE DOWN. WE HAVE ONE GOOD VEHICLE AND BUT WITH HIM WORKING THREE ROATATING SHIFTS IT'S A 7 MILE HIKE FOR HIM TO GET TO WORK. I OFFERED TO GIVE HIM A RIDE BUT BEING THE KIND MAN HE IS HE WAKES UP EARLY AND STARTS WALKING INSISTING THAT IT'S NOT OUR DAUGHTERS FAULT(WHO IS ONE YEAR OF AGE) THAT HE DOESN'T HAVE A CAR AND SAY'S SHE NEEDS HER SLEEP SO HE STILL WALKS. HE GAVE UP ON BUYING ANY TYPE OF VEHICLE BECAUSE IN THE PAST YEAR HE'S HAD FOUR AND EACH ONE SOMETHING HAS GONE WRONG WITH IT SO MUCH THAT THE AMOUNT TO FIX IT WOULD BE WORTH MORE THEN THE CAR. I WOULD BE FOREVER GREATFUL IF THERE WAS SOME WAY THAT YOU COULD LEND A HAND. I KEEP TELLING HIM THINGS WILL GET BETTER BUT HIS HOPE SEEMS TO GO DOWN WITH EACH PASSING DAY. YOURS TRULY: SHANDRA

Robin is a 42 yr old mother with a 1 yr old (Madison) and a 4 year old 
hyperactive child (we call her "Hurricane" Katie). Robin really has her 
hands full with these two small children, not really anyone that she 
can depend on and a very limited income. Katie is too young for the 
commonly used meds for hyperactivity, This makes it more difficult to treat 
her, and to be able to proceed with a productive life. There are many 
drs appts for these two children, many of which are postponed due to 
transportation, and Katie was recommended to specialized daycare for her 
behavioral issues; which needs to be done preschool. They have been 
unable to get that started as well, due to the transportation issue. She 
runs in full gear all day everyday, and is there for anyone, in any way 
that she can be. She is the kindest person I have met in a long time; 
and it would be wonderful if she could receive that kindness back, in a 
way that would help her get her life in order.

Thank you so much! This is a wonderful idea!!!

Dennis got divorce 3years ago. I let him use my car but it broke down. He lost his job which was in sheet metal. The company he worked for went bankrupt. He has been waiting for a job to open in his field but the only jobs that are available are out of state. He doesn't have transportation to go out of town to work. He is doing work for his dad to pay his child support payments which are close to $900.00 a month. I think if he could get a car he could get a job in sheet metal out of town and make the money to pay his child support and all his other bills.

Kathy is a single mother who lost her job because she got hurt at 
work. She has had 2 rotocup surgery's. Her daughter is in high school 
and has to beg for rides from friends or walk. She has to walk a mile to 
school.Which in the warm weather is alright but inthe winter even with 
jeans on the poor girl's legs turn red.They live off a small income so 
when her car fell apart 2 years ago they walked or took a bus. Kathy is 
very in need of a car. She is suppose to start taking classes in 
January through the goodwill to better life.A car would make it easier to get 
there on time.

My daughter is a single mom who has no car. She relies on me to get her to work and back and to all of her appointments She has been unable to start school without a car as I am unable to transport her to work and school both. This would change her life so much. She desperately wants to start school. She is wanting a career in the medical field. She has no help at this time from baby's dad. She feels like she is stuck in a rut she can't get out of. Unfortunately we are unable to help her financially at this time either. Thank you for your consideration. Kathy

I am writing in regards to the Car Giveaway. I have a daughter named Debbie who has had a really though time since she had two car accidents. For the past seventeen years she has endured three disc fusions in her neck and a double disk fusion in her low back and many other treatments throughout the years. Some of her doctor visits are required on a monthly basis. Debbie would also enjoy being able to go shopping in the late evenings for her groceries and personal needs. I am ill now and unable to take her to the doctor or just take her to run errands. She is feeling quite confined because of it. She has asked several people to take her to appointments, but she finds it difficult to find someone to take the time to help her. Debbie will really appreciate being able to have some of her independence back again. Having a vehicle will greatly improve her quality of life. Thank you for doing this for everyone. Debbie's mom, Karen

I HAVE BEEN SHARI'S DIRECT SUPERVISOR FOR SIX YEARS. SHE IS THE SWEETEST PERSON I KNOW AND HAS HAD NOTHING BUT BAD LUCK SINCE I HAVE KNOWN HER. HER HUSBAND WAS LAID OFF AND WAS OUT OF WORK FOR TWO YEARS AND HAS JUST RECENTLY FOUND ANOTHER JOB. SHARI SUFFERS FROM SEVERE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AND FMS (FIBROMYALGIA) AND HAS INCREDIBLE MEDICAL BILLS. HER DAUGHTER IS A SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD WITH MENTAL RETARDATION. HER OTHER CHILD IS IN COLLEGE AND SHE IS HELPING HIM ALSO. SHARI WORKS ANOTHER JOB WORKING WITH OTHER HANDICAPPED CHILDREN. IN THE JOB WHERE WE WORK TOGETHER SHE MUST DRIVE BACK AND FOURTH BETWEEN DIFFERENT BUILDINGS. ON HER SECOND JOB SHE IS REQUIRED TO DRIVE SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN TO VARIOUS LOCATIONS. ON NOVEMBER 28 THEIR SECOND CAR WAS STOLEN FROM THEIR DRIVEWAY AND NOW THEIR PRIMARY CAR IS IN NEED OF REPAIRS. SHE HAS BEEN BORROWING OTHER CARS AND THE ONE STOLEN WAS JUST BASIC TRANSPORTATION AND WAS NOT INSURED AGAINST THEFT. IN SUMMARY-----IF EVER A PERSON WAS DESERVING OF SUCH A GIFT SURELY SHE IS THE ONE. I ALSO FAILED TO MENTION THAT SHE ALSO VOLUNTEERS BOTH AT HER CHURCH AND FOR THE CITY LITTLE LEAGUE ORGANIZATION. PLEASE GIVE SHARI CONSIDERATION FOR ONE OF YOUR AUTOMOBILES TO BE GIVEN AWAY. SINCERELY, BARRY

Today's world is one of constant busyness. Everyone is always on the go. Some people are busy with themselves while others are busy in order to make a better life for others. My mother is the latter of the two. A woman of strength and integrity, she left her family and friends in California 15 years ago to create a calmer, more supportive, and positive future for her children in the state of Nebraska. The ironic part of this story, is that in spite of her courage and constant effort, my mom is not much further along than she was when she first came here. Her lack of success has nothing to do with an unwillingness to work or a desire to be lazy. Rather, it has been caused by a constant series of setbacks. My mother not only worked full-time when we arrived in Nebraska, but she also attended college while raising two children. For the first few years that we lived in Nebraska, we had no vehicle whatsoever. Therefore, my mom walked me to school and then walked to work every single day; in rain, heat, snow, and ice. She never complained, never whined. My mom simply did what was best for her family. Currently, she works two jobs and is constantly looking for a third. She works at least 50 hours a week and often times up to 65 hours in a single week. This may not seem like much more than another working parent, but she is the only parent in the home and we have no family in this state. In the past 15 years, we have struggled to keep a running vehicle in order to keep my mom working. Of all the cars that we have been blessed with only one ran well, until we were hit by an impatient driver. At the present time, we do have a vehicle. But the truck we own is quickly detiorating. For example, the stick shift sticks (which is problematic considering the stick is needed to drive the car) and the door lock is jimmied up in order to keep the door locked. The car eats approximately $150 worth of gas each week! My mom only makes $1200 a month and gas is half her salary! This is simply the gas used in getting my mom to and from work. (My mom has ceased doing things for enjoyment because of the gas prices of this vehicle). In the past 3 years, thousands of dollars have gone into this jalopy of a vehicle. My purpose in telling you all of these things is not to receive pity or sadness from anyone, it is simply to introduce you to a woman who not only loves her children (as many people do), but has sacrificed everything in her life to create a better future for her children. If you were to bestow the kindness of giving my mom a car for Christmas, her life would change drastically. Not only would she benefit monetarily, considering she spends at least 600 dollars a month on gas and only makes 1200 dollars a month, but her spirits would be lifted higher than they have been in years. This working, reliable, non-gas guzzling vehicle would be the doorway to a new way of seeing life. Life would be an encouragement rather than a constant struggle. Life would be more of a pleasure than a heartache. Life would be more enjoyable simply because of the kindness of a stranger. Not a day would go by without her, and I, thanking God above for the miracle of reliable transportation given from the heart of the people of Omaha.

Luanne is a single mother of 4 children. Her 2 middle children, identical twins suffer from hemophilia. This often requires emergency room visits and out of town travel to take the boys to their specialist. As if this was not enough to deal with, her youngest has severe asthma, which also requires numerous emergency room visits. As her landlord, my husband often is called upon at these times, in addition to helping with just routine transportation, such as grocery shopping. If she were to have her own transportation, we feel that it would make her life infinitely easier. She works hard to provide a good home for her family and the cost of purchasing one for herself just has not been feasible yet.

My brother Chris is just like our mom, a proud man who has a high pride level. If he knew I was doing this I am sure I would get a look or small lecture and the funny thing is I am older then he. Chris has medical problems now and has a girlfriend and four young children to raise and needs to get back and forth to work as does his girlfriend Gloria. I have come to see that hard times can affect anyone. I am a nurse and was unemployed for almost 3 weeks with 5 children to raise. It is humbling to ask for help which is what he is experiencing. Chris richly deserves help and needs someone to just crack the door a little, just enough to get a foot in and begin to come out of the valley. Life is peaks and vallies, he needs to start up the peak..with your help he can do just that. Thank you for your time and remember everyone has a problem some you can see some you cant but we all need help once in awhile. Than you for your time in reading this short note. Cindy

Erryn is a single mom, and full time student. She is currently relying on friends to get her back and forth to school, the store, and for getting her 22 month old daughter to and from daycare. She's is getting state aid currently, and friends help her with her other bills. She is scheduled to finish her schooling in June, and will then be able to get a decent job, but until then she is struggling along with the help and support of her friends. Most of her family doesn't seem to care enough to help her out, and none of her family live in the area to lend her a hand in any way even if they were inclined to do so. And unfortunately even the salvation army, who normally help people in her situation out this time of year with donated gifts for the children have told her that they are resurving all of their donations of gifts and food for the families that were living in the areas that hurricane Katrina hit. So she is stressing on how she is going to give her daughter a christmas on t op of everything else. So I know that having a vehicle that she can call hers, and knowing that at least in that way she wouldnt have to rely, depend, or inconviniance others would help her greatly. Her friends, including me, will do our best toi see that her daughter gets a christmas, but we dont have the means to get her a vehicle. I hope this letter finds you well, and I thank you for your time.

Hi, my name is Heidi. I am 20 years old. Since the age of 18 I have been struggling all because of transportation many people take for granted. This is a long story but I feel the need to add the details so that my shoes can be filled with your feet. At sixteen I started a job at a restaurant, about five miles away, to save for a car. Typical at sixteen. I worked as many hours as I could at minimum wage. My mom would take me to work as often as she could with her late eighties van, when she could not drive me I would walk or call people I hardly new and beg for a ride. The money I made I would pay to these people for gas and time. Finally I saved up one thousand two hundred dollars and bought a 1989 chevy corsica. I was excited with my car and happy for earning it with my own money and not my parents (who couldn't of helped even if they wanted to; four kids). At nineteen I left home and started a semester of school at the University. I had no money, no scholarships, I couldn't get a student loan because I was not old enough with no credit, rent to pay, and a vehicle that seemed to break down constantly, I tried to pay for expenses with the money from my high school job, but I soon couldn't keep up especially school and rent which was draining me. And this is where the real problems began, like dominoes each problem took a toll on the other. I let my brother who was 18 at the time borrow my car to meet a marine recruiter, on the way there he was involved with an accident which totaled my car. My brother and the other driver were fine, but now I was stuck paying my deductible on my liability insurance, rent, and two thousand five hundred dollars of school, and still scrounge up enough to eat and survive. I had nowhere close to that much money. But even worse than that, I had no transportation, everything I worked so hard for was gone in an instant. With no car and no money to pay for school I had to drop out of college which shattered me, I was kicked out of the apartment because I didn't have any money for rent. I became homeless in an instant. My dreams of becoming a nurse were looking farther and farther away. This is what broke me down, I became very depressed and began to feel worthless. I finally met Scott who is now my Husband. I moved into his house in Mynard (a small rural village just outside Plattsmouth). I depended on him, acquaintances, and friends for rides to work. I finally got a new job in Plattsmouth, about four miles away, as a nursing assistant taking care of the elderly. For about a year I got to and from work by at first walking/jogging and then riding a bicycle. During the summer I would dress lightly and change at work and in the winter I would dress in layers to keep warm on my daily commute. After a while I realized I needed to go back to college to end this horrible cycle. My coworkers helped convince me to go back to school. They told me after all the suffering and sacrifices I would eventually break the cycle. Problem was I needed a car to get to school. Even though I made slightly more money at this job I still could not afford both school and a car. I decided I would go to metro community college so that I would have money left over to save for a car. Scott goes to work at 7am and gets off at 4pm full time, I work from 2pm to 10pm full time. So our daily routine is We get up at 6am I drop him off at work with his car, go to school till 12pm, pick him up and have him drop me off at work at his lunch break, he goes back to work till 4pm, he goes to school at 6pm till 9pm and then at 10pm he picks me up. We do this cycle everyday to this day. Unfortunately his 1994 cavalier broke down a few weeks ago and I am now left without transportation again. I take the taxi to the hospital and to work if I can't find a ride, or I burden my coworkers to let me carpool with them. Scott has gotten a different vehicle with the help of his family, however I am still stuck without transportation. Sometimes I stay overnight in town so that I can take the city bus to school. The city bus will not service rural Maynard. I do what I can to hang in there however I wish I was no longer a burden on my friends, coworkers and especially on MYSELF. I know that if I can get from A to B and back again I could do great things with my life. I know I could make it to school and work, I could become a nurse and end this horrible horrible cycle. I am not asking for a new car, I am not asking for anything fancy, I am just asking for something dependable. I don't care what its' age is, I don't care how it looks. I am truely desperate. I would give anything for some shred of mercy from this endless cycle. This problem has humbled me and helped me appreciate the little things in life. I hope one day if I can become a nurse I can join this great cause. A car would solve ALL of my problems. Please help me reach my dream. PS: If I become a candidate and if it comes between me and someone with kids, give it to the family with kids. I need a car real bad but as a kid growing up with this problem, I don't want to see another one end up in my shoes. please pray for my brother Brad, an active Marine. Thank you for taking the time to hear my story. Heidi

I have a daughter and one on the way. And if I had a car I could take them where they need to go... like the doctors, parks, and I wouldn't have to rely on other people. MY only wish for Christmas is to have a car. I don't have a job right now i lost it 11/05/05 and a car would really help me get a job.S o if you would please help me thank you Sincerely Nikkei

Mike could use a car cause the one he has is not plated insured and 
gets 8 miles to the gallon if he is lucky runs terrible just well enough 
to keep him completely broke all the time  Mike is a single dad  hoow has 
had some bad breaks in life but still trying to fight this never 
ending  battle with poverty . his 2 boys Austin and Zachary  are the light 
in his eye and he needs a car to get his very small bissness off the 
ground Mike's Mobile Auto repair  and handy man services Mike has had his 
phone shut off do to this cars constant brake downs at very bad times 
loves his boys very much and he needs help now Mike lives in the projects 
and has had about45 or 50 murders in that nayborhood in the last 2 
years  he needs to get out and a good car would be the improvement in his 
ability 2 stay consistent in his life and work

This is a family of 6 kids. I watch their youngest who is 3 at my house in my daycare. Both parents work & try to give their kids everything they want. They have one car that is decent that the dad uses. But the mom has an old Astro van that has recently broke down, now she is driving the old station wagon that is not in that great of shape. They are usually always behind on bills and probably cannot afford to get what needs to be fixed on the vehicles. They have 4 kids that are in school from elementary & high school and all are involved in different activities so it is really hard to try to get everyone to their places with the vehicles they have. We have helped them out before with giving them our old furniture, they are just a really nice family that deserves good things. Thank you.

Sarah is a single mother that has been out for work for a few months. Not only does she take care of herself and her daughter, she also has been taking care of her older brother and his two children. Her brother has been sick since the beginning of November and has been hospitalized for the past week. When he is released the doctors expect a very long recovery period. Right now Sarah must rely on friends to get her back and forth to the hospital, and for her own appointments. If Sarah could get a car, then she could get back to work and the family would be able to get back on their feet.

Lori was struck and injured by another driver 2 months ago and her car was totaled. She will be under a Dr.'s care with physical therapy for an undetermined time. She is still paying on the loan as the balance was more than the worth of her vehicle. She is unable to purchase a car for financial reasons at this time and is currently using her brother's car (temporarily). She is working one full time and a part time job to support herself and pay for classes at Bellevue University to earn her Bachelor's degree. Ten years ago she single-handedly fostered 4 sisters with numerous challenges into her home and 3 years after that adopted them. She nurtured them with love and kindness until they became adults and continues to do so. I am certain Lori would re-donate this car back to someone in need when she gets back on her feet. That is just the kind of person she is and has always been. Lori has given to others all of her life and it would be nice to place her on the receiving end in this time of need. Thank you for considering her. Mary

My 36 year old son Norman is in end stage renal failure and end stage diabetes mellitus. My daughter takes care of him at home. She just recently lost her job and has a son 7 and a daughter 13. We are a family of 5 living in cramped quarters with only one car that isn't in the best of shape. With Norman on dialysis, his medications, his hospitalizations and Dr's appointments, the children going to different schools and my working in Omaha, Laura hasn't had transportation to look for another job. She is trying to manage and Christmas is looking very bleak for her children. She hasn't been able to continue going to college because she has to take care of all our transportation needs with my car. Managing time is hectic and when the children get sick which happens frequently in the Winter, her situation becomes chaotic because of unexpected schedule changes. At this point, she has no money, no job, a temporary home her children and no way to improve her circumstances. She

could really stand a bit of Christmas cheer. Thank you for your consideration and God Bless you all. Kathryn

Matthew is a disabled adult male who must live with his mother and handicapped brother because he was stricken with a terminal, debilitating disease called vasculitis about 2 years ago. This disease attacks Matt's organs and has already destroyed both of his kidneys. He must go to dialysis 3 times per week for 4 hours each time in order to stay alive. Matt has been borrowing a car from a friend to get to dialysis because he has to be there at 5am and he has found no other way to get to his appointments. The car that he is borrowing may not be available for much longer as the friend that owns the car has a teenage son that is reaching driving age and is planning on having that car. Matthew is living on Social Security Disability and receives $288 per month, which just barely covers the co-payment on his many medications. Matthew has had to depend on the generosity of others and a new vehicle would change his life by giving him a sense of freedom that he hasn't experience d for a very long time. Please consider Matthew for a new vehicle. Thank you.

I am from Omaha Nebraska and this is my reason for needing a car: I 
have lived on my own since I was 16 yrs. old my mother and father are 
leading there own lives and have denied to help me ever because they don't 
believe in me. i am 23 and have never had the money to get a car. I am 
saving up now but only because I am not paying bills I need to pay. I 
am trying week by week to save as much money as I can but, I work two 
jobs and go to school so it is very hard to get around I have to take 
three busses to work from my home and four to get to work. if I need a 
ride i have to take a 40 dollar taxi which is not helping me save at all. 
i am trying to stay on the right track an not try to run away from my 
problems by trying to take everyday one at a time.  i am starting to 
think that i will never graduate if i don't have a car and i will never be 
able to get a job i deserve because the only places that are willing to 
put up with my schedule are stressful and backbreaking .i know it 
 could be worse but i am trying to fix this problem before it is worse 
and i can't without some kind of help. so it would be great to have a 
car i hope you will consider me. i am a person trying to stay on the 
right track. if nothing else can anyone at least tell me if they have any 
cars that run WELL, AND HAVE HEAT AND BREAKS THAT I COULD BUY FOR CHEAP? 
I WILL PRAY EVERY DAY FOR THAT AND ONLY THAT THANK YOU AND MERRY 
CHRISTMAS.

Rebecca, a single mother of one, has worked diligently to provide for her son, and she tirelessly works to help others as well. She's a quiet, gentle, giving young woman who puts others before herself. She had a car, but frequently it wouldn't start. Due to this, she was late to work several times in a job with a strict tardiness policy. She was placed on probationary status but unfortunately was late again which led to automatic termination. She lost her car because she couldn't make the payments, so now she's without both a job and transportation and has no means to get to work when she is able to find a new job. In addition, Rebecca is engaged to a single father of two. He has transportation but needs it to get back and forth to work himself. A car would enable Rebecca to return to work and to once again provide a sense of normalcy for her family. I hope you'll be able to help her. Thank you.

My 18 year old daughter, Brandy, just had her first child in September and she doesn't have a vehicle to get around for doctor appointment, needs, groceries, etc. She also wants to go back to work and part time school so that she can make some money instead of having no income for her and her new baby. I would love to help her to get a vehicle myself but I can't and her father has passed. If she were to get this car she could get her job back, go grocery shopping, go to doctor appointments, go to college interviews so that she can do what she wants with her life. She talks about all these things that she wants to do with her life and for her new child, but it's so hard to get started with out a vehicle, especially in winter. Please help her, it would not be a mistake and she could finally get the start on life that she wants. Please take her into consideration. Thank you, Sandy

Lori and Wes  moved here from N.Y. state a little over a year ago.  
Wes is a baker and Lori, his wife is a cashier in the evening.  They 
have seven children that range in ages from 3 to 16 years of age.  All 
but the 3 year old attend school and need daily rides to and from school.  
Presently both of their vehicles have over 140,000 miles on each one 
and as of yesterday Lori`s vehicle died while transporting some of the 
children home from school.  As it stands now it looks as though the 
transmission has died.  

Lori is currently relying on relatives to pitch in some support daily. 
Wes leaves for work each day, 6 days a week, at 3:45 a.m. and is 
completely unable to assist in the daily transporting of the children to the 
three different schools; elementary, middle, and high school.

In the last 6 months between the two of them they have spent well over 
two thousand dollars in repairs for their vehicles.  Somewhat between a 
rock and a hard place they are unable to get any kind of loan for a 
vehicle because of their meager income, not to mention the size of their 
family. When all these factors are considered by the bank it makes their 
ability to pay back look very risky for the lending institution.

Needless to say, a move from N.Y. and having seven children to support 
has not been financially easy for the Family.  With the ever 
increasing cost of living coupled with severe car problems this has become very 
difficult for the  family.

I think my daughter Samantha would make a good candidate for your cars for Christmas program. She is the mother of 4 children ages 4,3,2,7 months. Being separated from her husband, this past year she paid $250 for a car that ended up being a salvage vehicle. So in turn has found that the engine has major problems, the fuel line has constant problems, and no one can figure out the wiring for her tail lights to work. Her and her husband have recently been trying to work things out and his vehicle has been helpful but also has problems of it's own. It has engine problems, it has no heat, and recently they can't figure out why they have to have it jump started all the time. I feel for them immensely but have my own financial problems and can't help her myself. I thought that this would be the best way to show my motherly love in nominating her for your program, Cars for Christmas. In hopes that she can have the freedom to go to stores, Dr.offices,and the family Christmas in Des Moines that she has missed out on the past few years due to unreliable transportation. I am hopeful that you and your wonderful program can help her. Thank You Sincerely Samantha's mother Debra , May you have a Merry Christmas.

On July 25th, 2005, Ben passed away at the age of 15 from leukemia. His birthday was on July 30th. He had the disease for about a year and a half. He fought harder than anyone I have ever seen. He was my best friend and Terry's son. There are 4 other children in the now divorced family. Jake, in middle school, Scott, just started college, Paul a freshman with autism who is struggling with his brothers death, and Sara, who is a senior and is doing her best to help out her mother. Terry cannot keep a job because it is so hard to be dealing with the loss of her son and is getting very down about it all, and having to transporting everyone to and from school and work alone makes it even more difficult. She drives an old Toyota Camry that is rusted, falling apart, and sounds like a dieng cow. The tyranny is leaking fluid, the oil is leaking, the tire rod is going out, has a broken windshield, no muffler, a hole in the trunk, the brakes are going out, the engine is going out, and has 143,000 miles on it. Terry has been wanting a new car recently when we did a final benefit for the Mellor family just so they can get around a little easier and better, but no one was able to get them one. This would be a huge surprise and relief for them. Sara works on 70th and Dodge at the Playhouse, and her mother has to take her there everyday, so it would be nice for them to be driving a halfway decent car. A new car could be one thing that could help them move on and to continue their lives. She has indirectly talked to me about wanting a new car and how nice, convenient and most of all relieving it would be. Thanks, Jeff

My friend Barry is a GREAT guy. Very outgoing and energetic. A father of three, single father of three (10,7,and 4 I think?), and a great dad. Barry is a cook down in the Old Market. his hours are never the same, morning day and night, and range from 40 to 60+ hours a week. This makes it very difficult, if you ask me, to find a sitter willing to be there for these three kids. Especially difficult, if Barry has to be at work at 5am or has to work until 1am, and he doesn't live anywhere close to any friends or family. And, imagine for a minute, if you will, doing this EVERY day without a car. Your own car, not one borrowed from family or a friend, which is exactly what he goes through. Barry has full custody and responsibility of these three children, due to their mom walking out on them to lead another life style. This left Barry with no money, lots of unpaid bills, a rental property, and a brand new car. Oh, and let's not forget about his three kids... It's getting close to Christmas time. I worry what these guys might have to go through, if they will have a Merry Christmas, or if they will have presents under the tree. Or, worst yet, if their mother decides to call or come see them. This is all a lot to handle for a single young father of three. I really think that Barry deserves something like this. If I could afford to, I would have already gotten a car for him.

My brother just recently got a van, but the transmission is bad. It's 
rusty and it doesn't run very well at all. He needs the van so his 
girlfriend can get to and from work, which they don't live close to at all. 
He can't work right now because he has arthritus in his arms, hips and 
spine. He can't even pick up either of his sons. He has four kids, the 
oldest of which is just going into kindergarden, so he really needs a 
new van to drive, one that can get his girlfriend to work and back and 
hold his kids. His phone was cut off though because he didn't have the 
money to pay the bill, so if you call any number, just call mine. Sorry 
about that.

Jennifer's father is serving his country in Iraq and she has been using 
his old car to get back and forth to work.  It has been breaking down 
and we don't have the money to keep getting it fixed.  At this point, it 
is not running.  She is only 18 and does not have the credit or the 
money to buy a better car plus pay insurance.  I'm not able to help her. 
She needs a safe, decent running vehicle or she could lose the job she 
has.  If she had a decent car, she would be able to find a better job or 
perhaps even attend college next year.  I would not have to worry about 
her breaking down somewhere. This year has been hard on her with her 
dad in Iraq.  He will be there for the next year and most of what he 
makes goes just to pay some of the bills.  If you could help Jennifer with 
more reliable transportation, it would be greatly appreciated and would 
take a huge burden of worry off of the family.

Cameron is trying to get his life straigtend out.His girl 
friend and him are     expecting in July. He is trying to find a job and 
wants to get his GED.It is hard to get to places to do this without a 
car. He has made misakes in the past he is trying to turn things around 
and do better. He could really use the help right now.

Roxy is a very needy person due to health reasons she has not been able to work full time for the past six months. Roxy lost her vehicle because the clutch went out and she did not have the 750.00 to get it fixed. She has spent much time helping others in need including her mother who is in a nursing home, and nearly died two weeks ago. Roxy and her sister who has heart problems are the only two family members who are able to help and comfort their mother. Roxy likes to volunteer her services to those in need. Roxy is having difficulty getting around to be with her mother, sister who need her. Roxy has lung problems and is unable to wait in the cold for buses which makes it difficult for her to get to her own doctor appointments as well as normal everyday activities. When Roxy is able to work the small amount of money she earns is not enough to cover her own needs. Roxy has a good heart and loves helping the elderly and keeping them company. A vehicle would help Roxy tremendously to res ume her normal life such as doctor appointments getting to and from work when she can work and also helping her mother and sister and bringing cheer to the elderly and other people in need of a kind voice and companionship. Please help Roxy with a vehicle, She needs one very badly. Thank You for your time and consideration in this situation. Sincerely, Todd

After Chris lost his job due to arthritus, we scrapped to gather enough 
money for an old van, though it's more rust then van, it was needed so 
Gloria could go back to work after their baby was born. They have four 
kids and drive to Council Bluffs almost everyday. The transmission in 
the van is slipping, the heater stopped working and most days it doesn't 
want to start. They are a wonderful young couple and it would mean so 
much for them to have a car for Christmas. He didn't have the money to 
pay the phone bill since he can't work, so call me, his mom Barb 
at (402) ###-#### if needed.

My mom has like a 1992 or 1994 Red Geo Storm. I call it the time machine it shakes so bad when you drive it, you feel like you are gonna go back in time. Her car leaks transmission fluid so bad you can tell where she has drove around town. She can only drive the car so far before she has to stop to put transmission fluid in the car. It also started on fire a few months ago from the leak but she is still driving it. The drivers side window is broke and she has to fight with it just to get it to roll half way up. It has no mufflers, her transmission is also going out she has reverse some times, but most of the time she has to park so she can drive forward and not back up. Her car pops out of drive when she is going down the road. The key to the car is tapped together with ducktape. The doors don't lock and the tires are bald. I feel so bad for her she works so hard at two jobs but she can't afford to get a new car or anything that is safe for her to drive. If I had the money I would help her out. I live like almost a mile from the bar she works at and I can hear the car start up. When I'm in my house and have the TV on. If you could

help her out it would be the best Christmas Gift anyone could ever get. Please help her. Thank You Nichole

Bernard is an evacuee from the Katrina / New Orleans area who has relocated by Fema to Omaha. He is currently performing job duties temporarily at #### until he is able to find a permanent job in Omaha. Bernard has been a valuable person in helping #### staff help other evacuees. He does not have a car which limits his ability to find employment that will help sustain him in Omaha. Bus service from the Bellevue area to Omaha is limited to Express service which only operates for a short time in the morning and again in the afternoon around 3pm. This limits Bernards ability to apply for jobs or even to get to and from a job site. I have been working with Bernard to teach him how to use computers and find him a able and attentive pupil. Andrew Mueller has been working with Bernard to complete Housekeeping projects around the #### Building He would be a great attribute to any employer. But he needs transportation to get to and from a job. A car would make it possible for him to expand his ability to obtain a job and to get to and from his job site. Please consider Bernard as one of those persons on your list as most in need. a Car would certainly change his life at this point and allow him to recover from his losses from this national disaster. Thank you for your consideration.

My mother is not capable of working outside of her home right now. She 
takes care of my 14 year old brother. She babysits my little nephew and 
my 2nd cousin to help them avoid heavy day care costs. Her car is over 
10 years old and in very bad shape. The muffler is in such bad shape it 
has started to leak carbon monoxide into the car. None of us family 
members have enough money-especially this time of year to come up with the 
funds it would take to fix her car so she can take my brother where he 
needs to go. My mother has a very limited income and barely is able to 
purchase her medication and provide Christmas for my little brother 
every year. (I usually help a little with Christmas). My mother would be 
so so grateful to have a car that works that is not hazardous to drive 
in or hazardous to have children in. It would be a Christmas blessing if 
she could qualify for a car. Thank you for reading this.
Sheri

I am writing to nominate Barbara ####### of Omaha, NE to receive a vehicle through the Cars 4 Christmas program. Barbara is my single 58-year old mother who is struggling to make ends meet. Last week her 1992 Hyundai Excel (with well over 100,000 miles) died, and now she has to take the bus from her home in Northeast Omaha to her place of work in the west part of town. She books hotel reservations over the phone for a small hourly wage. Her not having a car is a great burden to Barbara for several important reasons. First, she lives in a very bad neighborhood (off Ames Street), which causes concern about her safety as she stands outside waiting for the bus. There have been numerous robberies and shootings near the bus stop. In fact, just recently there was a fatal shooting in the park across the street, which concerns us both greatly. Second, at just 5-foot tall and 105 lbs, Barbara is not a hearty woman when it comes to cold weather. To make matters worse, she cannot afford the proper clothing to keep warm as she stands outside waiting for the bus. Just yesterday she told me she has only one pair of socks because she gave her other pair to a woman who had no socks, a sign of my mother’s generosity in spite of her own limited resources. In addition to problems of safety and weather, the bus route makes it very difficult for her to get to work. She has to transfer twice to get to work in the morning and waits nearly ½ hour (outside, in the cold) for a transfer. Because of health problems, she has missed some work recently, and I am concerned that another absence will cost her her job, something she definitely cannot afford since she lives at the poverty level. Last year she did not earn enough money to have to pay taxes, so she has no savings to buy a new car. I have helped her financially (and emotionally) as much as I can, but I am unfortunately not in a position to buy her a car. My mother is a single, aging woman with no one to lean on. She stayed home to raise me, and after her marriage fell apart Happy holidays, Scott

My brother Chris and his wife Gloria have had a very difficult year. While they have been blessed with a healthy daughter they struggle raising their family. Chris has severe psoriasis and is often discriminated against because of the physical appearances of this. They moved to Blair from Council Bluffs to start over. He got a job as a security guard and things were going well. He started having severe pain and was diagnosed with severe degenerative arthritis. He is only 28! This is a side effect of psoriasis. He is no longer able to work. Gloria has gotten a job a cashier. Unfortunately it is in Council Bluffs. Gloria drives from Blair everyday to Council Bluffs to help support the family. They purchased a very old 1985 van. It is more rust than vehicle. The transmission is going out on it. They are in desperate need of a vehicle . We gave them an old Buick that we had but it only lasted a few months. Please help this young family. They are struggling to take care of themselves but seem to have the odds stacked against them. They desperately need reliable transportation. Please enter them in the drawing for a car. I know that it would make a huge differance in their lives. God bless, Sharon

My neighbor,  Paul is in dire need of a car.  His last car, a 
'76 nova, just plain wore out.  He has been unable to afford a good car 
as a result of declining work over the last few years.  His job once 
demanded full time with some overtime. Now he can go a week without his 
work needing any help. 

When Paul does work, he often walks from his home on S. 32nd street 
Omaha all the way into Carter Lake Ia.  Since he starts work so early in 
the morning and has to walk through bad sections of town, he has been 
mugged on the way to work in the past.  Furthermore; having to walk to 
work in the winter cold is not good for a man of his age.  The busses 
that are available to him only gets him about 1/2 the way to his work, he 
still must walk quite a distance to work.  (there are not any busses 
that run to Carter Lake)

Moreover; he is about 1 year from retirement, he will need reliable 
transportation to move close to his family and get his new life started.  
Already being on a fixed income. Without a car, it will be very 
difficult to make his transition into retirement. And already being on a fixed 
income, he has little to no chance of affording a good car.

Thank you for your time and consideration.  Have a merry Christmas.

I have a 4 1/2 year old boy and 10 mo. old twin daughters and my mom 
got me a cheap van to get by and i have done some repairs and on Nov. 13 
i was driving and the engine blow up. I am getting state assistance and 
they have me in a program that requires me to go to classes and get a 
job and my daughters was deathly sick at 3mos. old and without 
tranportant it is hard to do these things and get kids around.I would be so 
greatful if you considered me. It would be such a blessing. Thank you for 
your time inreading my request.                     Sincerly Amanda       
I know you will recieve hundreds of requests. I know you can only help 
a few. This is such a giving and heart warming program.

I would like to nominate my fiancé to receive a car for Christmas. This past year has been very hard on us. In January we had a beautiful little boy born with Down Syndrome. Four days after he was born my car was totaled by an uninsured drunk driver. A month or so later, my fiancé's car was totaled. When insurance pulled the CarFax on his car we came to learn that his car had been totaled four times before. Last night in the second snow storm of the season Chris went out to give a friend a ride home from work. On his way home he was hit again and his car is beyond totaled now. So the car has been totaled now six times. Since my car was totaled in January we bought a junk car from a buy here pay here lot because our credit has gone down the drain since I am often away from work caring for our son who has many health problems. We need reliable transportation to get Chris to and from work. Without that he will lose his job and we will lose our home and won't be able t o care for our family. My other fear is that given the bad shape Chris' car is in, if he is ever in a serious accident the outcome could possibly be fatal because his car is not safe to be driving. After being totaled six times I am sure that the frame will crumble under a big hit. One of the most important reasons we need a reliable car is so we can get our son to and from dr's appointments. We average over four dr's appointments each month and so far we also average at least one inpatient hospital stay each month. Evan, our son, needs a safe car to ride in. My car has been in and out of the shop since we bought it, and now there is now way that our kids can ride in Chris' car. Not only has it been totaled four times, but his exhaust is broken so the fumes leak into the car. Since I am barely able to work we can't afford to fix anything with his car. Thank you so much for your consideration and Happy Holidays! Sincerely, Jessica

Dylan is 28 year old single father of 3 children. He works very hard at a full time job, but does not get paid very well. Almost all his money goes to child support and daycare. He has to rely on other people for transportion, such as relatives and friends but this makes him feel bad. Sometimes he takes the bus but they don't run at night. A basic vehicle could improve the quality of his life so he could transport his children himself and feel better and not worry so much. This may also allow him some freedom to seek a better paying job. He feels humilated that he is 28 years old and has to live with his parents. He is a very dedicated father and his children are the most important reason for his needing a vehicle. This would make Dylan's Christmas very special.

Thank you for offering the Cars for Christmas Program once agian. I am submitting my request to you for a Christmas car. I am a disabled American Naval veteran of 2 years. During the past nine years I have suffered from degenerative arthritis in 5 discs in my back and 5 in my neck. I have been hospitalized numerous times because of the discs and related migraines. I'm receiving full social security benefits and have no outstanding bills. This makes it quite affordable for me to maintain the car and its gas and maintainance. I have a very special lady in my life named Debbie. I hope someday to make her my wife. She is writing this letter for me. Debbie is legally blind and is limited in her movements because of osteoarthritis. In spite of our everyday frustrations, we smile a great deal and laugh a lot, and hate being away from each other. I am 6' 3 1/2" and weigh 247. Please do not consider me to be ungrateful, but it would be very difficult for me to function in a compact car. Again, thank you for your Cars for Christmas program. Best of holiday wishes to you! Sincerely, David

I am submitting this application for a car on behalf of my boyfriend, Okley . He currently has no vehicle to use to get to work, or to get around. This has greatly impeded his progress to start a singing career, or any career for that matter. It has also caused an immeasurable amount of stress on him as well as on me and our relationship. Being in Bellevue, the bus schedule is at the very least inconvenient and difficult. Also with Winter fast approaching, it would be even more difficult, due to the delays in the public transportation system. I'm sure that he would make the most of this wonderful blessing if he were given the opportunity, and would do the same for someone else in need in the future. Thank you so much for your consideration, Best Regards, Leslie

Jaci has been a friend of mine for years.  Our daughters grew up 
together.  She has the kindest, most giving heart of anyone I know.  Besides 
her daughter, she has 3 grown sons - one of whom is paralyzed.  Her 
previous vehicle blew its engine over a year ago.  Since then, she has had 
to rely on friends and family to get her to the grocery store, and help 
transport her son Josh to his therapy, Dr. visits, and even to the 
emergency room.  Without a car, she cannot get a job as wherever she would 
work would have to be close enough to home to allow her to be there 
almost immediately in case of an emergency.  I hope that Jaci can get a 
vehicle to help her get her life back on track.  Thank you for this 
opportunity.

And a special Thanksgiving to you too
Mr King & Mr Owens,
My name is Jerry, I listen every day to your morning
show...........My wife and I listen on the way to work every morning
and love to listen to you
guys........................ you seem to always make a us laugh........and now-a-days we can
use a few laughs.................anyway !
I am requesting to nominate a special person i know in our lives for
the "cars 4 Christmas"...... . Her name is Tonya , she is a African
American and Tonya is 30 something and a single mother of two young boys
{Michael and anthony} she has three broke down cars in her backyard
that need a lot of $$$ to fix them and she can't afford to, those cars she
has paid for over the years but her luck seems to go south on every
attempt to buy a reliable car. she has a back problem........< pain >
that Tonya has battle for years...... the pain seems to keep her from
keeping a steady job along with not having transportation to take her kids
to school, football practice, or just simply going to the dollar
movies. her brother Tony Ward lives in Bellevue and has to travel to 36th and
Fort every morning to give the kids a ride to school before Tony goes
to work himself. Tonya dad { Pops } also helps Tonya out by driving her
to the store when she needs to go, the Ward family is a closely
knit family that would help anybody out. I would love to see Tonya
this Holiday Season get a surprise of her life by getting for Christmas a
special present she truly would appreciate and so, so much deserves.
Tonya is a devoted mother of two and simply is the very best person for
this special project C.D 105.9 is having. My last comment to you guys
at C.D 105.9 is this: PLEASE .....find it in your hearts to make a
Christmas very special for a women that truly is deserving of this
gift............... yours truly

Jerry

P.S: Keep rock -in' The Big "O".....WE-Love It !

Good Afternoon, My name is Libby ^^^^^^^^^^. Two years ago my boyfriend who lived with me suffered a brain injury resulting in the need for long term rehabilitation and care in a hospital. After getting out of ICU (Intensive Care Unit) he was sent to a rehab hospital in Lincoln, because this is where his mother was living and decided would be most appropriate for placement. My boyfriend's mother is Sharon and it is for her that I wish to apply for transportation. When I met my boyfriend it was my understanding that his mother, Sharon, after losing her own mother, struggled through temporary joblessness and homelessness before finally finding a stable environment for herself in Lincoln. She found herself a full time job, an apartment and even bought a car. Things were going really well and starting to look up for Sharon. A year into our relationship my boyfriend then suffered a brain injury. This obviously came of shock for all his family and me. His mother immediately came from Lincoln and stayed with him in the hospital for a month. Very seldom would she leave his side. She spent many nights sleeping on a mat in the hospital's waiting room area. But doing this resulted in the loss of her job. They were unable to hold the position for her. In this same period the car broke down and she was unable to repair it, having to let it go. It wasn't in the best shape to begin with. Her son however was relocated to Lincoln for rehabilitation. This was helpful for a while as she was able to be nearby. But then the job search became difficult and she was having better luck in Omaha. I told her not to worry as she could ride with me for regular visits which we did. So she relocated to Omaha for a job and started work with a home care service for the elderly. She relied on the bus to get to the various care sites. But then a month into the job, the employers said that she needed to get her own car as she could be more efficient for their purposes than relying on Omaha's MAT system. Then the rehab hospital where my boyfriend was at decided that he was not progressing and that he had to be released meaning we had to find a nursing home site. This was unacceptable and absolutely horrifying. But with some research we located a specialized brain injury rehab hospital in Glenwood, Iowa and they had an opening. In a way it has been better, as it brought my boyfriend closer to the Omaha area, only 20 minutes away. And I moved out there to be near by and continue my support. My boyfriend's father and stepmom are able to visit regularly, but his mother Sharon, must still depend on me or other children for rides. Glenwood is not really a convenient place to live without a vehicle, as alot of the resources and goods are in Council Bluffs or Omaha. Sharon has not desired to live there without her own transportation anyways. I know this has gotten old for Sharon as she would like to be able to visit her son whenever she feels like as well as attend to his care meetings, and medical appointments without me having to rearrange my work schedule around these times. Sharon is his guardian and would like to eventually bring him into a home care situation. And the likelihood of this is great as he is improving! But again Sharon struggles as getting a job that she can get to and from by the bus is not easy as well as maintaining a residence without assistance is pretty much impossible. And once you get any kind of housing assistance there are usually parameters on how much income you can receive from a job without jeopardizing the assistance. Its a vicious thing and I know she feels trapped. And I know if it hadn't been for the great love she carries for her son, she would not be in the predicament that she is in. But she perseveres somehow and I just wish that some great blessing could be given to her to make the situation easier. I know that her son would benefit too just knowing that his mother had more control over her situation. Please consider helping this strong woman. She has endured for so long without, I really feel she could gain a lot more stability back in her life having a vehicle of her own.

My son's best friend, Ben , was diagnosed with ALL (leukemia) last March 2004, he passed away July 2005 at the age of 15 (1 week shy from his 16th birthday). His mom is divorced, didn't have a job for the two years he was sick, hasn't been able to find a job. There are four others kids living in a very small house ages 18, 17, 15 & 11. The 15 year old is autistic and was very close to his brother Ben, Ben understood him and when he grew up his plan was to take care of his brother and mother. As long as I've known his family they have always had a crappy, junky car it looks like it might be a 1980's camry. Ben never got a "wish" from Make a Wish, (he wanted his home to have an extreme makeover, but Make a Wish couldn't do that) then he went downhill so fast there wasn't time for a wish. They made many trips to the hospital in their crappy car and I'm guessing he would be wishing his mom could have good reliable transportation to pursue getting a job and getting his brothers and sisters around to school etc. He was more worried about how his sickness was affecting his family not him. Thanks for the opportunity to request this. Happy Holidays Christine

Laurie and I met on a chat site and became fast friends.  She is 
divorced from a bad relationship and has 2 kids. She has recently gone on 
disability for conjestive heart failure.  She and her 2 kids have asthma 
pretty severely.  Because of recent problems with the school that her 
kids had been attending she now has to go clear across town.  She was 
givin an '89 Buick LeSabre', with over 225,000 miles by her church family.  
It has had everything under the hood fixed and repaired at least once 
and I understand it's more than what others have already but she saw the 
church ministry people that fix her car and they told her that they 
weren't sure how much longer it would hold up and if this one dies they 
won't give her another one.  She just started getting disability pay but 
I'm not sure if it barely takes care of their basic needs.  With all the 
medical issues they've had I would hate to see them without a car and 
they don't have anyone they can rely on to get the kids back and 
 forth to school and doctors appointments.  If you can help in anyway I 
know she would be truely thankful.  She has no idea that I'm asking 
this for her but I've put it before you and I've put it before God and I 
pray that you see she is truely deserving of this.

Hi, My name is Jayme. I am 23 years old, and I am writing because my dad needs a lot of help. My parents split up 2 years ago because my dad had a bad drug problem. They lost their house and my dad lost his job. My mom lives in an apartment in Council Bluffs, and has a lot of really nice things. My dad on the other had, has not been so lucky. He moved into my Grandma's (his mom's) basement apartment and has been living there for the past 2 years, he has been looking for work, but can't seem to find anything, and when he does, something happens and he can't make it to work. He is in a real bind right now because sadly, my Grandma passed away in September and now the house he has been living in has been sold and he has to be out by December 7th. He has no car, no money and no place to go. I think that if he has a dependable car that can get him from point A to point B he can get his life back on track. He has made it though his drug problem and just needs a little bit of help, but because of him not having a car it is going to be hard for him to get a job to get the money that he needs to be able to support himself, and give him a place to live. It would be much appreciated if you could help him. It would mean a lot to me, and it would mean even more to him. Thank you and God Bless, Jayme

To Whom It May Concern, I am not going to lie to anyone. My wife and I each own a vehicle. Both cars have over 160,000 miles on them. They are are rusted and not in the best shape. My wife is afraid to drive either one of the cars out of the city limits. We talked about trading them in for a nicer and more reliable car. But no one will accept our credit or even our cars. To be honest, I can't even make a payment because our credit record is very bad. I am asking if someone has, not a new car, not even a 2 or 4 year old car, but a car with less miles and dependable. I would be very happy and thankful. I drive a 91 buick skylark and my wife drives a 92 geo prism. And we also have two children (12 and 2yrs old) that we take to daycare and school. If for some reason that we are overlooked for a car, I understand. There are people that don't even have a car, that need one, should have one. But, if you happen to have an extra one in Santa's bag, please don't shy away from us. Thank you and Happy Holidays to everyone. Kevin

Traci is a hard working single mom. She works overtime when ever she can and gets the help of her mother to keep track of Tyrell (her 13 year old son -Tyrell is a honor student at King Science Center. Traci is a great mom and a very hard worker. Her position at our small manufacturing plant covers the basics but doesn't leave much else. Her current vehicle is literally wired together. Our plant mechanic helps her to keep it running but Roger said a funeral is pending. Thanks for your consideration

I first became accquainted with Jeannie in October, 2003.  That is 
when she came to work at the Skutt Student Center @ Creighton University. 
At that time, Jeannie was living around 36th and Burt Streets. It 
wasn't until she had been employed at Creighton for several months that I 
found out she walked to and from work! Jeannie's shift ended at midnight 
back then. It worried the life out of me that she was walking so far in 
such a dangerous part of town.

Since then, Jeannie has gotten her own apartment on 10th and Williams. 
I assumed that she also had gotten a car, but I was wrong. She walks 
home from Creighton University, from 24th and California all the way to 
10th and Williams at midnight!! 

Jeannie is a very hard worker. She is trying to get her life back 
together after a series of personal losses that left her homeless four years 
ago. She has struggled and overcome many obstacles and needs a chance 
to better her life.  A car would meet the immediate need of providing a 
safe way for her to get home. It would also provide an opportunity to 
improve her work situation. There are many better paying jobs with 
better hours if she could get reliable transportation.

Jeannie is a wonderful person.  She rarely, if ever complains, 
and she deserves a chance to improve she quality of life.

Please consider her for the CARS 4 CHRISTMAS program. She would 
probably faint...after she screams.. It would be a wonderful thing for her!!

Thank you so much for the opportunity to try and help her. I wish I was 
in a position to give her a car myself.

Connie A

Kim has been out of work since May 5,2003 because she does not have 
transportation to look for work nor get to work everyday. She has three 
kids, one located in Texas with his father, the other two are girls aged 
5 yrs and 4 yrs old. She doesn't even have a computer to search for 
work on the internet. She is a very devoted mom to her children and 
deserves to have the chance to work to provide a good life for her children. 
She talks about going back to school and looking for a job all the time 
but unfortunately has no means of transportation. She has to ask some 
relatives, friends and neighbors for rides to the grocery store just to 
get food in the house for her and the girls. She has been on public 
assistance since she lost her job. She feels degraded to have to be on 
public assistance and not able to work everyday to provide for her family. 
If she was able to receive a vehicle to transport her back and forth to 
work and take the girls to daycare she would be so thrilled. 
Thank you for taking the time to read about Kim's story. Sincerely, Amy

My daughter and grandson have been without a car for 4 yrs now. My 
daughter has gone through 2 surgeries this year one on her low back and the 
other on her neck. Due to a work related accident 5 yrs ago. Both my 
grandson and daughter have medical problems and require going to dr 
appointments a lot. Sometimes the appointments have to be cancelled b/c they 
can't get a ride there. Jennifer is hoping that in 2006 to start 
looking for a job but with how things are she won't be able to find anything 
close to home to walk to. She has been struggling ever since she left 
her husband and since her accident at work. All she wants is to be able 
to go back to work to provide better for her son. They both dread 
winter time the walks to and from school take 10-15 mins. I hope that you 
will be kind enough to help them. Thanks!!
Jacki

Carol is a selfless, giving lady. She does so much in the way 
of providing transportation to anyone who needs it, no questions asked.

Carol and her husband Steve, who is now in a nursing home, have been in 
ministry for years. Carol is in the church choir at Bethany Lutheran  
. Her husband Steve, before suffering a major stroke that put him 
in a nursing home, was an associate pastor.

In addition to the countless rides to doctors appointments, work, and 
errands that she has provided us in our time of need. She also 
faithfully transports others and runs errands for others as well.  

The car that she has now is sadly on it's last leg. It is a buick 
station wagon. Because of the situation her husband is in, they are on very 
limited funds, and a newer station wagon would be a blessing to her.

Carol knows what it is like not have a car, in college she always 
prayed that if God would bless her with a car, that she would give others 
rides as often as she could. She has been true to that selfless promise. 

Please give her a Christmas to remember and bless her with a dependable 
working station wagon once again.