Mother and Son Facing Eviction Crisis

Hello friend, and thank you so much for taking the time to listen to my story.

I was released from my job last week. I had been with the company for 3 years. I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Sometimes the flare-ups are so bad that the pain radiates throughout my whole body. I also have severe fatigue, swelling, and extremely painful tongue sores.

We just received a new general manager in our cafe back in January, so I had made the decision to apply for intermittent FMLA to protect my job for when and if I had to call out due to my chronic health condition. Unfortunately, I had to use 2 of my approved intermittent FMLA days in February. When I returned to work, my hours had been cut from 36 hours/week to 19-20 hours/week. I was told by the general manager that I was no longer able to open or close in my Team Manager role because we weren't sure what was going on with my health. The reduction in hours became the new norm for the next 2 months.

My driver's license has been suspended because I haven't been able to afford vehicle insurance. My last day working was April 14th. I had a flare-up from my rheumatoid arthritis the previous weekend and missed 2 shifts at work. I was terrified to use my FMLA time for fear of further retaliation, so I just said that my stomach was upset. I was let go for attendance issues. It was a battle that I just couldn't win.

Rent is due on the first. My final paycheck today was only good for 39 dollars after insurance deductions. I have most of the rent, but I am lacking $450. I was almost evicted in February, and if I am even a day late, they will file for eviction.

I am a single woman who cares for her 28-year-old mentally ill son. He was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia 13 years ago. I am trying to keep a roof over his head. I am praying that I can at least do that.

Any donation will be so greatly appreciated. Blessings to you all.