Like everyone here, I am looking for some assistance. I am a hard worker and generally kind person. Unfortunately, my kindness has taken it’s toll on me. I have helped friends financially throughout the years. They agree that my assistance is a loan – meaning to be paid back. Something always happens and I go unpaid.
One friend had a thrift store. I was in the process of moving and closing my own thrift store. I asked if she would be interested in purchasing my inventory – and since we were friends, I would make her a GREAT deal. She was interested, but tight on funds. Understandable. My 4,000 square foot site was well stocked. Furniture, knick knacks, clothing, kitchen ware, small appliances, etc. I made her a deal. I would stock her store with my items. I didn’t want to do a consignment situation. She could leave my prices on the items, or change them. At least she had a guide of what I was getting for things. My items went to her location. I had rented a truck for my move, so I used it for the business as well. I loaded the items, paid gas and mileage on the rental truck, arrived at her location, and unloaded everything since she was not in great health at the time. We agreed that she could have 6 months to sell the items and build up capital. The price was $5000 due 6 months after I delivered the items. With the pricing I had in play – if everything sold (which never happens) she should have had $20,000. I figured that after 6 months of having my inventory, a good amount would be sold and in the process, she would have built her business. I checked in on her, and even worked her shop when she went to doctor’s appointments. My stuff was FLYING out the door! Most items were kept at the same prices that I had, but there were a few that were marked higher. A bedroom set – solid wood, long 6 drawer dresser, tall 5 drawer dresser, 2 matching nightstands, headboard. I priced the set at $300. She priced it at $750. It sold the first week! I would guess at least 40% of my items were sold within the first month. By the third month, roughly 70% of my inventory was sold. We had agreed on 6 months payment due in full, or she could pay down the balance along the way. $200 here, whatever she was comfortable with. I knew she had made not only the $5000 she owed me, but at least $6500 that she profited. The 6 months passed – no payment. A few months later, still nothing. At the one year mark (6 months after payment was due) she wouldn’t take my calls. She and her 3 kids had moved, and I was not told the address. The shop was still there, but she now had employees and I never seemed to show up when she was there.
Completely ghosted. The financial blow was difficult, but the personal blow was devastating. I tutored her kids. I was their Auntie. I was there throughout 2 of the pregnancies. I missed my friend, and my (even though she birthed them) littles. I thought I was helping a family build something.
This is but one example of my kindness being taken for granted.
I have some items I am trying to sell on Marketplace, but having very little luck. I currently work remotely. I had a position from 2020 – May 2022. It was originally supposed to be a 3-6 month contract, but they liked my performance and kept extending the contract. I have just started a new position in mid July. The pay is significantly less than my previous employment, but I needed something. I have worked with the public for 20 years, and now am unable to do so. My anxiety keeps me remote. I also would like to start my own online business, but lack the funds to do so.
With housing skyrocketing since the pandemic, I was forced to move in with roommates just to get by. I will be honest, it’s not great. June and July I was unable to pay my portion of the rent, electric, and groceries. I am in debt to them and now August is due. By September, I should be able to pay rent on time, and maybe start chipping away at what I owe them. I am hopeful that there is help out there so I can make it right with my roommates that have taken care of me during this financial hardship.