Hello, my name is Bob, and I’m a 66-year-old disabled senior living in central Maine. I hate to ask for help, but I’m truly in a tough spot this winter, and I need your kindness and support.

My current woodstove has started to leak soot into my house because of cracks in the stove, and the bottom is nearly rotted out, making it unsafe and unhealthy for me to breathe. I’ve had to remove my smoke detectors because they kept going off constantly due to the soot from woodstove leaks, which is incredibly dangerous. Unfortunately, the programs that I fully qualify for to repair or replace my stove have been giving me excuses for 3 years—reasons why they can’t help me right now. I’ve tried everything I can to get assistance, but I keep hitting dead ends. Now I’m afraid of what I’m breathing and my home being a firetrap with no smoke detectors.

My goal is simple: I need to replace my old leaking stove with a safe and reliable wood stove—either used or new—that I can afford. I also need help with firewood to keep my home warm through this harsh Maine winter, as I am on a limited income and the cost of firewood is overwhelming.

Living in Maine without a proper stove is a real challenge, especially for someone in my situation. The cold weather isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s dangerous to my health. A safe and working stove would mean warmth, safety, and peace of mind.

Please consider helping me with a donation to purchase a new or used stove and some firewood. Your support would mean the world to me—helping me stay safe, warm, and healthy during these tough times.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading my story and for any help you can give. Even sharing this campaign with others would mean so much.

With gratitude,

Bob and my cat Jingle