Hi, my name is Libby Hunter, and I’m fundraising on behalf of my best friend, Alex Anderson, to help her support her brother, Paul.

On November 5th, Alex learned that Paul had been arrested on September 30th and is currently being held in jail on a charge related to the reckless use of a firearm. During the arrest, it was clear to officers that Paul was exhibiting signs of severe mental distress unrelated to drug use—a true mental health crisis.

I’ve known Alex and Paul for nearly 20 years. Their family has always been one of warmth, generosity, and open doors. Their parents welcomed every friend with a place to sleep, a warm meal, safety, and too many laughs. Paul himself is kind, creative, deeply funny, and incredibly talented as an artist.

Life dealt them more heartbreak than any family should bear. Alex and Paul lost their mom in 2015 and then, unexpectedly, their dad in 2022. The grief was tremendous and, not long before their father’s passing, Paul began to show signs of extreme paranoia, which was something none of us had seen in him before. After their dad’s funeral, his mental health continued to decline. His behavior became increasingly disorganized and fearful, and he eventually withdrew from nearly everyone who cared about him. He has not been able to work or maintain relationships because of this untreated mental illness.

When Alex was finally able to speak to Paul in jail, she learned that he had been assaulted while inside. Paul currently has a public defender, who is managing over 900 cases, and while he is doing his best, the reality is that Paul needs focused legal advocacy to ensure his case is handled with care, and that he receives the psychiatric support, treatment, and dignity he desperately needs.

The financial burden of navigating the criminal justice system is overwhelming. Alex is working to hire a criminal defense attorney who can advocate for mental health intervention rather than punishment. We want to help Paul get stable, safe, and supported, not lost in the system.

Paul is not a criminal. He is a good man in crisis. What he needs now is compassion, treatment, and a chance to heal.

Your donation, no matter the amount, makes a tangible difference. Even $5 truly helps, especially if many people give. If you feel moved, please also share this with your community.

Thank you for taking the time to hear Paul’s story, and for considering a gift toward his healing and future. Your kindness is appreciated more than you know.