CU Canteen Run looking for donations to buy new ambulance

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) – For 21 years, Dan Davies and his wife Barb have made it their mission to serve the community’s homeless. The duo, along with a group of volunteers, drive around three nights a week handing out food, clothes and supplies to people in need.

That could all change though, given the state of the ambulance used to deliver the supplies.

It currently has almost 310,000 miles on it. Davies has had it repaired over the years, but he’s has been told by mechanics that it might not be worth putting so much money into the failing vehicle.

“We’re nursing it along, it’s running ok,” Davies said. “If another (part) goes down, the truck will probably fail.”

Davies said buying a new or used vehicle would heavily deplete their already-limited resources. He’s hoping the community will step up with a donation.

“Without a vehicle, we’re pretty much dead in the water,” Davies said.

Their current ambulance is the fourth donated vehicle they’ve received.

With winter just around the corner, Davies said it’s all the more important they have a well-functioning vehicle to be able to deliver much-needed coats, winter clothing and food.

“I’ve often said if we can make a difference in just one person’s life, it’s worth it,” Davies said. “We’re giving a lot of these people the essentials they need to get through another night, but we’re also giving them hope.”

People interested in donating can do so on CU Canteen Run’s website .

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