Van Stolen From Disabled Man; Community Rallies To Support

CLAREMONT, CA — A Claremont man who suffers cerebral palsy was dealt a blow this week when his specialized van was stolen. Quinn Klingerman, a 31-year-old local artist, was summarily stranded, according to family and friends on hisGoFundMepage.

The 2014 Honda Odyssey, which has been estimated at $65,000 to replace, was taken out of the family driveway on June 22. Thus far there are no leads but there has been an outpouring of support from neighbors across the Southland.

His condition, which affects muscle coordination and mobility, does not keep him housebound, he told reporters. "I'm not the type of person that would sit at home. I need that car," Klingerman told NBC4.

The Claremont Police Department heard about the story through social media channels and offered a the family a check for $480. That will cover four days of rental car fees.

"If things come to our attention that we can help out, we're always happy to help our citizens of Claremont," Matthew Hamill, Claremont police officer, told NBC.

The GoFundMe page is raising funds to replace Quinn's van, provide temporary rental transportation for him until his new van is ready. In one day, nearly $2,000 has been raised.

Any remaining funds will go directly to support any other transportation needs for others who have special needs, they said.

GoFundMe is a Patch Promotional Partner.

Photos, courtesy GoFundMe, Claremont Police Department