Hi, my name is Colin. Right now, I’m writing this with more shame than I can explain, but I have to try—for my family.

My girlfriend Sidney and I have two beautiful kids: our newborn son Cayson, and our 2-year-old daughter Marah. They’re the only light we have left in our lives after losing everything. Recently, we were kicked to the curb and left with nothing. We’re trying to survive day by day, just trying to give them what they need to be okay.

I never thought I’d be here, asking strangers for help. I’ve done everything I can think of. I’ve picked up extra hours at work, tried selling anything we had left, applied for loans, and even signed up to DoorDash just to have food to put in front of my kids. But no matter how hard we try, it’s not enough right now.

I feel like I’ve failed them. I feel like I’ve failed Sidney. I wake up every day wondering if I’m doing enough—but giving them away isn’t an option. They are my whole world. I just want to see them smile again without worrying how I’ll make it happen.

All I’m asking for is help. Help so my kids can have the basic things every child deserves: food, shelter, diapers, and a safe place to sleep. I don’t care what I go without—this is for them.

If you can give anything at all, no matter how small, you’re helping me keep my family together. You’re helping Cayson and Marah have a chance.

From the bottom of my heart: thank you for even reading this.

— Colin