1994 Grand Prix 3.4L 6 cyl auto transmission with AC

This is my daughter-in-law's mother's car. Lady is a single mom and has to
drive long distance to/from several jobs so money is a problem.

I'm dealing with third hand information: I've not driven the car as I'm 1200
miles away. Be home soon but would like to get input to think about on the
return trip.

The car is parked except when it's driven in a protected area for testing.

There are two problems (that I know about at this time):

First car occasionally loses break peddle. Not always and gradually. There
are no obvious leaks. Not sure but I think the parking break works.

Second the car will not make speed. Engine revs but not much acceleration.
Reports suggest that the clutch may be slipping. Problem has developed over
the past month but only reported this weekend. Right now top speed in ~ 35
mph on level does not do hills at all.

My questions:

1) Any input on what may be the problem with the breaks? How to diagnose
and fix?

2) What's the protocol for diagnosing the transmission problem.

3) Are there any $ saving options to get this back on the road?

My training is aircraft so I'm a bit of a loss on any expertise with
transmissions.

Please post on ng or direct to

(remove ( ) to respond)

Regards and Thanks in advance.

BR