We hate to see military veterans in need of our services. A reliable vehicle should be the least of their worries when returning to civilian life. Yet we can also rejoice, because as our most recent client proves, when a veteran is in need, this community truly answers the call. Donald is an Army veteran and single dad raising his kindergarten-age daughter and caring for his ailing mom. He plays the drums in his church’s worship band and works for the city of Bryan. But when his previous vehicle died, all of that hard work was jeopardized. Not only could he no longer get to his job, he couldn’t get his daughter to school or himself to the nearest VA hospital 90 miles away for doctor’s appointments. With used vehicle prices rising 50% in the last two years, far outstripping wage growth, there was simply no way he could afford the vehicle he needed.

Fortunately, a marine veteran and fellow church leader named Khadija noticed Donald’s need. She nominated him to OnRamp and we quickly got to work. Once approved, we needed to raise the funds for a vehicle large enough to fit him and his family. That’s when you, our generous donors stepped up, along with a wonderful local veterans support organization, Brazos Valley Cares. They donated $10,000 to his case, and with the additional financial support of our donors, we purchased a reliable Toyota Rav4 for Donald. And here’s the best part. Our OnRamp vehicle acquisition volunteer, who happens to also be an Army veteran himself, Joe DeWolf, found and purchased the vehicle here in Texas from another Marine veteran! So that’s three veterans plus a veterans organization stepping up to help this worthy Army veteran in need! What a great community!

Thank you, as always, to Christian Brothers Automotive for repairing and prepping the vehicle for Donald, along with our whole team of interviewers and care providers who welcomed Donald into the OnRamp family. We’re grateful for this opportunity to serve a veteran and his daughter and mother in their moment of need.