When I called my friend Maayan* today, it was just to say hi. We’ve been close for more than 10 years, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. As we caught up, she admitted something that stopped me in my tracks: she had just used her last tampon and couldn’t afford to buy more. Then she started to cry.

In all our years of friendship, I have never heard her cry. That moment made it clear how much the financial stress has taken a toll on her.

Maayan also told me how difficult it was to share that she was struggling. As a working professional in her 30s, she has always been self-sufficient. A sudden downturn in her employer's industry meant her hours were reduced and she had to use her emergency savings. She is actively seeking a job in a more stable field, and her profession is transferable, but the process will take time.

Right now, Maayan needs help to cover the basics: rent, food, toiletries, medical and dental care, cell phone bill and transportation.

If you've ever been in a tough spot financially, you know how stressful it is. So many of us rely on family in these situations, but Maayan is the daughter of a single mother who can’t provide financial help or a place for her to live, and her siblings are still in college and graduate school.

Maayan is hardworking, intelligent, ethical, and deeply kind. Professionally, she’s always excelled, and personally, she’s the one who shows up for others. She doesn’t need long-term support—just a bridge so she can get back on her feet.

My goal is to raise enough to cover Maayan’s basic expenses for the next three months and give her a stable foundation to rebuild from. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference. Together, we can give Maayan the support she needs to regain her financial footing, her mental health and her independence.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for giving if you’re able.

Notes and Disclosures:

-Maayan is a pseudonym to protect her privacy.

-Funds will go to a dedicated bank account and then to Maayan via PayPal. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions about this process.