A Fresh Start for Tama and Pablo

As many know, due to health issues, I lost housing in November 2023. I then lost my job in May 2024. It’s been quite the journey, 17 months of homelessness. I went from Airbnb to Airbnb, bouncing from friend to friend, and sometimes even sleeping in my car. & Losing half of my retirement savings from entrusting the wrong person.

Up until just a few months ago, life felt extremely daunting. I never knew where I was going to sleep or where my next meal would come from. Looking back, I still have no idea how I was able to get through it all.

After I worked so hard to overcome childhood trauma, I was suddenly facing new traumas, and to this day, I hold so much grief. My life has been completely turned upside down. Nothing in my life is what it once was, but I have good faith in God's plan.

I’ve been quiet the past few months, taking everything day by day and counting my blessings. I was able to maintain shelter in a space that provided electricity only by a stranger's good grace. Since I finally had steady shelter, I’ve been able to secure a job. I don’t make nearly as much income as I used to, and I’m not utilizing my career experience, but I’ve been able to maintain meeting my basic needs for the most part.

I have to say, I’m proud of myself. Grateful for the support of others but proud because as easy as others make it seem with their words, what I’ve experienced has been incredibly challenging. But here I am today, not a familiar face in sight and making do with what I can.

My shelter is coming close to an end, but I am purchasing a camper for Pablo and me. I’ve been able to get a great deal and have been able to secure a spot with year-round hookup. This will give me the opportunity to feel more comfortable and secure so I can return to employment with higher pay and make some long-term decisions for my life. I plan on living in the camper for the next year or so until I have enough funds to relocate into housing where I find a job with a more livable wage.

The camper needs some work, and I have until May! I’m asking for support to purchase supplies and funds for me to get my belongings back to me. Since I’m on a time crunch, it’s hard to have extra funds to get the camper livable with food costs, car payments, medical expenses, and other basic necessities. But I’m doing my best and hoping to gain some support to make this next step in my journey with ease.

Funds will go towards replacing flooring, rebuilding a bed frame, and other materials for cosmetic changes to make it into a place I can call home ✨✨. The camper itself is in good shape and has a shower, kitchen, A/C, and heating. The most important part will be replacing the flooring and possibly subflooring. I already have help fixing minor water damages.

I truly am looking forward to the day when I no longer am living off microwaveable meals and have an onsite restroom/shower.

I am hoping to raise 2k, but that may be more than necessary. If I meet my goal and have any additional funds, it will go towards replacing the kitchen sink, needed furniture, kitchen supplies, and food costs. I don’t plan on buying new, and materials donated are welcomed, but I am also hoping to make this into my home, and I want it to represent me.

I appreciate any support I can get, and I look forward to sharing my remodeling journey and life that Pablo & I are about to walk into.

Many thanks,

Tama & Pablo