Hi, I'm Gary ledwidge, and an army veteran who served in an Aviation Battalion of the 7th Infantry Division, Camp Casey, Korea. I am disabled and live on a small Social Security income. I was lucky enough to find a wonderful place to live 41 years ago in a small community in Hollywood. I have lived here through five landlords, and have met wonderful neighbors who helped care for me when my health was not good and even when I was just needing some groceries. They would even let me pet sit for their animals whom I love so much.

I recently learned that the current owners are planning on razing the building and several others on the block that they own, in favor of building commercial real estate. So many people are losing their homes. Of course, I will receive the proper relocation fee, but with the amount that my rent will go up to move anywhere, the money will go very quickly. I am on long wait list for affordable housing but have no idea when/ if it will get to my turn. With the major health problems I have had in the past few years, it is important to me to stay in Los Angeles to be near my doctors and the VA, since I don't drive, can't walk well, and can't afford Ubers.

I am asking for financial help to try to keep a roof over my head and stay independent. The dream is that if enough money comes in, coupled with the relocation fees, my neighbor and I could actually make a downpayment on a small place to share! That's the dream ... So, yes, I am looking for financial help, but I'm also looking for a place to live that is affordable and near the Hollywood area. I would prefer to pay no more than $650/month (including utilities). Even that can be a stretch but I'm open to options.

Thank you so much for reading my GoFundMe. Please don't think that any donation amount is too small. Small drops of water create an ocean.