Family First

Hi, I’m Melinda. First of all, let me just say Thank u in advance for ur help or even if it’s just to share my cry for help. Literal cry for help, see I’m a full time employed phlebotomist. However like all essentials workers that’s not saying much since it’s still the same as before the pandemic, nothing special. Over worked and unappreciated. My husband is also a hardworking Ironworker who works outside in this Arizona heat. However, like most jobs that means some days it’s short hours or getting sent home early.
So here’s my story... I use to have three little pairs of eyes watching my husband and I come home exhausted and hungry. However, it was recently that my sister got her kids taken from CPS. They were all in group homes then after CPS made the best decision to keep the kids with family, I got all six. My family already is going thru hardship especially living on the reservation with no electricity or running water. So I was the only best option.
I’m an aunt who has a kind heart who believes she can make sure the kids do not have to stress or worry about being out of place again. So with that, I now have nine pairs of little eyes watching my every move. The kids are helpful, sweet, and wonderful who shouldn’t have to endure all these changes. Especially when they have to continue their education in a new school. Which as of now, they all all back to in-person learning so that gives my husband and I the opportunity to keep our jobs. But with this pandemic our hours aren’t guaranteed especially with unannounced CPS workers stopping by.
So with great responsibility comes more bills. I’ve recently had my phone disconnected, my internet shut off because I need pay extra rent to a private renter. I also have unpaid electricity and water bills. So what income my husband and I earn was only enough to cover my little family has now demanded more. I want my kids to not have to worry about where their next meal has to come from or when something is gonna be shut off.
I have applied for food assistance and many government assistance but since this pandemic we are all pretty much in the same boat. So I put my cry for help on social media for what little help I can get. The CPS also shared that we should get what’s to be an allowance for the kids but received nothing as of yet. Instead we have had multiple case workers come and go. And even though this post is alittle embarrassing, I need help! Even if it’s just alittle donation or even a simple prayer. Thank you once again.