A Fresh Start After Unimaginable Setbacks

I come to you today with humility and a heavy heart, reaching out for support during one of the most challenging times my family of four has faced.

I know many families are facing hardship right now, and I recognize that some have it even worse. I’ve done everything possible to keep us from becoming unhoused—selling valuable items, seeking help from churches, and contacting agencies. Unfortunately, many resources are overwhelmed and can only assist once someone is already unhoused.

In August 2024, the north end of Calgary was hit by a severe hailstorm, leaving many homes and vehicles badly damaged. While hailstorms are not new to our area, what made this event especially difficult was how insurance companies found loopholes to avoid providing support to their customers. We were one of many families affected.

One of our vehicles was so severely damaged that it was written off. Unfortunately, insurance did not cover the loss, and the only options offered by the dealership involved paying an exorbitant amount—either $8,000 to buy out the vehicle or $5,000 to trade it in and start a new lease. After consulting lawyers and other dealerships, we found that insurance was legally not required to assist. This unexpected financial blow hit us hard.

To make matters worse, we were already struggling to stay afloat after I lost my job in 2023. We managed to get by on Employment Insurance savings and the incredible help of a dear family friend, but we hadn’t fully recovered when the hailstorm struck. Adding to our stress, our rent increased for the fourth time by $300, our Enmax bills went up, and our car insurance rose by $250 as well after trading in our vehicle.

We’ve always done our best to manage, but life has thrown one challenge after another our way. I am the type of person who researches extensively, plans ahead, and makes sacrifices to support my loved ones. It’s not easy for me to reach out, but we’ve exhausted every other option.

We’ve tried to get assistance from banks and loan companies, but the help they offer is minimal compared to what we need—like a $3,000 loan with an $8,000 payback. We are currently living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to choose between paying for groceries or the phone bill. Our Enmax bill alone has reached $1,100, and we’re buying groceries on layaway just to make ends meet.

We’re on the brink of eviction, and moving out of the city or potentially the province seems like our only hope for a fresh start, as Alberta’s current economic climate is not sustainable for our family. The total amount we are requesting would not only cover our most urgent bills but also help us move—whether from our current home or out of the province—giving us the chance to rebuild in a more supportive environment. A fresh start like this is something we desperately need and may not have the opportunity for otherwise.

If you’re able to help in any way, whether by donating, sharing our story, or offering advice, it would mean the world to us. We’re grateful for any support during this incredibly tough time.

Thank you for your kindness.

From our family of 2 kiddos, a Husband and a Pup!