Hello friends and community,

We are reaching out on behalf of our dear friend Ruba, a beloved member of the Portland community, who is navigating a convergence of urgent and unanticipated crises (medical, housing, and travel-related) all at once.

Ruba is a person indigenous to Jerus*lem who grew up under occupation. She is a person who gives endlessly to others. She supports family members in Jerus*lem, helps sustain a family in G*za, and shows up for her community with generosity, creativity, and care. Asking for help does not come easily to her; but right now, she truly needs it.

Over the past months, Ruba has faced significant unexpected expenses that have rapidly compounded. She is currently in Jerus*lem and is carrying nearly $13,000 in urgent debt, stemming from medical needs, housing instability, and unavoidable travel and maintenance costs. The timeline is extremely tight.

In addition, Ruba must return to Jerus*lem regularly in order to maintain her Jerusalem ID, which is a requirement for people like her who are born in Jerus*lem but considered permanent residents without citizenship. Missing this requirement means she would be cut off from her family and would never see them again.

Despite her own hardship, Ruba has continued to prioritize supporting her family, but she has recently been forced to reduce that support due to financial strain. It is deeply important that she regains stability as soon as possible, as her family relies on her help.

Immediate Financial Need

The bare minimum needed to cover urgent expenses is $12,950.

Primary Costs Include

$5,000 - unexpected loss of rent due to extenuating circumstances

$2,800 - urgent and unforeseen dental care

$500 - essential medicine and supplements not available to her family at home

$2,000 - round-trip airfare

$2,650 - unavoidable and necessary home maintenance

Additional travel-related costs

Every contribution ( no matter the size ) helps relieve immediate pressure and gives Ruba crucial support during an incredibly stressful moment.

If you’re able, please also share this fundraiser with trusted friends and community members who may be in a position to help. Collective care truly makes a difference.

Thank you for showing up for Ruba. Your kindness, solidarity, and generosity mean more than words can express.

With deep gratitude