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Bree Cabrera (left) poses for a photo with family.

Courtesy GoFundMe

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Martha Mkina recently died in a tragic accident.

Courtesy GoFundMe

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Thanksgiving is a time to put things in perspective and realize all of the many things in our lives that we have to be grateful for.

But there are those in our communities facing difficult times who need a helping hand.

More than 400 people have demonstrated that willingness in helping two local families who are dealing with significant challenges through GoFundMe donations.

One is Bree Cabrera, a Clearfield woman who found herself without a vehicle capable of transporting her wheelchair.

“The past couple of months have been incredibly tough for me and my family. Like so many others, we’ve been struggling financially, and it’s reached a point where I had to make some impossible choices,” Cabrera posted on her GoFundMe campaign on Nov. 23. “This past Sunday, my wheelchair accessible van was repossessed because I couldn’t keep up with the payments. I can’t express how much this van means to me — it’s not just a vehicle, it’s my freedom. Without it, I’m stuck at home with no way to get around. I can’t get to my kids’ events, doctor appointments, or participate in school activities. It’s heartbreaking to feel cut off from the community and from being there for my family in the ways that matter most.

“Having my van back would change everything. It would mean I could be present for my kids every day, support them at their events, and take care of my health. It would give me back my independence and allow me to be part of the community again. This is truly my last resort to get my van out of the pound and catch up on the payments.

“I know times are hard for everyone, and asking for help isn’t easy. But if you’re able to contribute or even just share my story, it would mean the world to me. Thank you so much for your kindness and support.”

In the seven days since she shared her need and as of Sunday, 367 donations had been made and more than $16,000 of the $20,000 goal had been raised.

Anyone interested in helping Cabrera reach her goal can go to https://gofund.me/3563ef295 to make a contribution.

The Mkina family in Ogden is dealing with an even more personal tragedy, after they lost a daughter, Martha Mkina, in a car accident.

“A bright and radiant light was extinguished much too early,” GoFundMe campaign organizer Ron Smith posted on the campaign page last week. “Martha Mkina passed away a few days ago in a tragic automobile accident. In an effort to alleviate the financial burden on the Mkina family, we are collecting funds to show them our love and support at this trying time. Please join us in this opportunity to lift this family in their extreme grief from this unexpected tragedy. Thank you!”

As of Sunday morning, 52 donations had raised more than $6,000 of the $7,000 goal.

Go to https://gofund.me/d20b9413f to support the Mkina family in their time of need.

While these are just two examples, there are numerous other ways to provide help and support to those going through tough times, including donating time and funding to local charities and getting involved in programs like Sub for Santa or Angel Tree aid efforts.