Safe home for the holidays — Chicago edition

Hi everyone,

I’d like to take a moment to thank my family who have supported me in more ways than financially, in the course of 6+ months. As parents, and a family. You shouldn’t have to worry daily about your daughter and sister’s wellbeing. I appreciate you hearing my story. God bless.

As some of you know, my family lives in Utah. We originally moved from Utah to Washington State in 2011, with HARD efforts I’ve been financially independent since 2015. Due to the unfortunate situation discussed below, I’ve found myself in one of the hardest situations of my life, having to overcome MANY obstacles. Not only is my safety at risk, but my mental health has taken a huge toll. I truly find passion in what I do and this was created as a “last resort” before making the decision of having to go home and leaving the place I’ve called home for the last 13 years.

The last time I was able to visit my parents was last Christmas, at most I’d love to have a place to call home to invite them over for the holidays.

EVERY DONATION COUNTS.

If you have a moment to read my story I’ve summarized a portion of it down below.

In January 2024, I moved into what I thought would be my new home for a few months. From the very first week, it became clear that I wasn’t welcome. My neighbors began harassing me, which quickly escalated into stalking and targeted behavior. Six months later, I’m still living in constant fear. I come home to a place that feels anything but safe. And because I can only afford rent, I haven’t been able to save enough to move out. I’m stuck.

People have shown up at my home unannounced, taken photos of my front door, my cars, and my driveway. I’ve had to call the police due to harassment and stalking, and I’m exhausted. The only advice I’ve received is to move, but that’s easier said than done. My savings were completely wiped out by the $2,000 move-in costs, and I’ve been dealing with a broken fridge for months, which ruined my food. The landlord didn’t address it until a technician confirmed in July that it was indeed broken. Meanwhile, the house I’m renting is in foreclosure, meaning none of my rent payments have gone towards the mortgage. Yet, my landlord continues to manipulate me, insisting I pay rent on time so they can “make their house payment.”

Your home should be a place of peace and privacy, but I’ve experienced nothing but fear and anxiety. It has taken a serious toll on my mental health, worsening my depression and anxiety, for which I’m on medication. In May 2024, I filed for a restraining order, but no one ever followed up. I’ve even had to change my phone number because my mail was being stolen, and I have video proof of all these incidents. It’s not okay to live like this.

Living in constant fear—having to cover my windows, not knowing who’s lurking around my property—has drained me emotionally. I don’t remember the last time I felt safe or happy in my own home. I’m just tired. I want this nightmare to end.

This isn’t the first time I’ve dealt with something like this. In 2022, I was forced to leave another home under threat of eviction. I’ve endured so much, and I’m finally speaking up because I need help. Over the last six months, I’ve paid over $10,000 in rent, living in fear, dealing with a broken fridge, and constant harassment. I’ve even had to buy cameras and a locking gas cap because of suspicious activity around my home. This isn’t normal, and no one should have to deal with this alone.

Mentally I’m exhausted and at most would love a safe place to come home to. If you’re able to help, anything would be appreciated. The funds will go to cover immediate things like (first/last month rent and pet/regular deposit). We all know that with moving in in today’s age has been more complicated to say the least, my hope is to be out of here by end of October and in a safe home in time for thanksgiving. Any remaining funds will be donated to people in need.

My spirituality is what truly keeps me going, it’s knowing there is a power greater than me that will make sure I overcome it all. God bless