I never imagined writing something like this, but I am scared, exhausted, and asking for help keeping a roof over my children’s heads.
I was laid off from my job in February. I had savings, and for a couple of months, those savings kept us going. When they ran out, things started getting rough. It is me and my two children. One of my children is autistic, and his sensory needs and difficulties with food can make everyday life more complicated. Keeping foods he can eat available, paying utilities, and trying to put enough aside for rent became a struggle I could not keep up with. I fell very far behind.
I have a court deadline of October 14 at 5pm to pay what is owed. I have managed to come up with much of the money, but with the late/court fees I’m still $4,000 short. After that deadline, the apartments can begin arranging with the sheriff to remove us. That same day is my son’s tenth birthday. I want to celebrate him, but right now, I am terrified about whether we will be able to keep our home. I door dashed to make as money as I did but then my car broke down and needs a head gasket replacement but that’s a different problem. So, please understand that I am someone that also helps herself, I don’t expect the world to do it all for me.
I do not drink or party. My focus has always been being a mother and protecting my children’s well-being. I know what it feels like to grow up without security. I grew up without a father, and my mother kicked me out when I was fourteen. From there, I helped raise my two younger siblings into adulthood while struggling to find my own way.
I feel like I have experienced enough fight or flight for a lifetime. Still, I have tried to remain a giving, caring person. I consider myself an empath. When the world hurts, I hurt. When I was working, once a month I would make sack lunches and hand them out to people experiencing homelessness downtown. I could not solve everything, but I could make sure someone had something to eat and felt seen.
I have always worked and tried to support my family. I have reached out for assistance when I truly needed it, and this is one of those moments. I start a new job at the end of this month. There is a way forward, but I need help getting through the gap between now and that first paycheck.
I know many people are hurting. I do not believe my struggle matters more than anyone else’s. I just need a miracle right now. Any contribution toward the remaining $2,000 would help us keep our home while I get back on my feet.
I have always believed in paying kindness forward, and I will continue to do that. Thank you for reading my story and considering helping my family. Any help received will be received with genuine gratitude and appreciation.
My PayPal handle is: @DominiqueMartinez33
My Venmo handle is: @moonmarie222