My name is Finn, I’m 16 years old, and my mom and I are trying to rebuild our lives after being forced out of our home.

In November 2024, we moved to Los Angeles to live with my grandfather. The plan was simple: save money, help take care of him as he got older, and give me a better opportunity for school and education.

At first things were okay, but after Christmas everything changed.

My grandfather became increasingly aggressive and abusive toward both me and my mom. It started with constant yelling, insults, degrading comments, and racist remarks toward our friends. Over time, it became controlling and frightening. My mom was pressured for money even after paying bills, and I was often forced to help him with things before I was allowed to focus on school. We lived in fear of setting him off.

Because we had nowhere else to go, we stayed quiet and tried to endure it. But the situation kept getting worse. My mom was prevented from cooking comfortably in the home, lost access to basic living space, and eventually even her work equipment was taken, making it impossible for her to continue her online business.

Recently, things reached a breaking point. We were locked out completely. The locks and gate codes were changed, and we were denied access to our belongings — including clothes, school supplies, uniforms, and personal necessities. We are now trying to find stability while also caring for our dog and figuring out where to go next.

This situation has deeply affected both of us emotionally, financially, and mentally. Right now, my biggest goal is simply to get back into school and continue my education while my mom works to rebuild our lives and regain stable income.

We are asking for help with temporary housing, replacing essential belongings, transportation, food, school supplies, and helping my mom restart her work.

If you can donate, share this, or even leave words of encouragement, it would mean more than I can explain. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for helping us through one of the hardest moments of our lives.