Hi, my name is JJ, and I’m reaching out because I’m at a breaking point — not for pity, but for a chance.

In less than two weeks, I could be homeless. I’ve been fighting to build a future for myself, I’m currently majoring in construction management at UMES and I aspire to be able to build a better future, starting with unfinished projects throughout Maryland and blooming from there, but right now, im barely hanging on, to not only an education but a dream that I hope doesn’t slip through my hands.

I didn’t grow up with safety or stability. My childhood was filled with abuse, fear, and instability. I went through the foster care system, had high hopes, and eventually got adopted, life didn’t magically get better unfortunately. I’ve faced one hardship after another, but consistently I’ve tried to stay afloat, but I can’t do it alone anymore with unstable housing, broken promises, and loss that cuts deep.

Last year, I lost both my grandmother, who was one of the only people who made me feel truly loved and understood, and my pet, he was my emotional anchor through the darkest times. Grieving both while trying to survive personal struggles pushed me to my limits.

Now, as college approaches, I’m standing at a crossroads. With funds to high and little time to spare, and odds stacked against me and my housing situation, I’m grasping on to the last bit of hope I have to make a full 180.

I am actively searching for jobs, I’ve worked in construction, manufacturing, and fast food before, but jobs don’t come fast enough to cover immediate needs.

I can’t afford tuition, food, housing, or even transportation.

Every day, I worry more about where I’ll sleep and what I’ll eat, than about school.

Despite everything, I’ve never stopped fighting. I want an education. I want to break this cycle. I want a life where I can finally breathe, be stable, and help others who are growing up the way I did.

If you’ve ever felt lost, if you’ve ever had to survive when you had nothing — you know how terrifying this is. If you’ve ever hoped someone would show up for you when you needed it most — that’s what I’m hoping for now.

Every donation, every share, every word of support matters. You’re not just helping me get to college — you’re helping me survive. You’re helping me stay housed. You’re helping me fight for a life I’ve never truly had

If you have any questions or want to know more, I’m an open book and love meeting and conversing. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and for caring.

With everything I’ve got,

Jeremias Allison <3