MANNY ( EMANUEL BOLTON) MOBILE HOME APPEAL

Dear friends, family, community,

I am reaching out today because many of you know my brother Manny, (Emanuel Bolton) and have been witness to his unique gifts as a musician and artist. Over the last 10 plus years Manny has experienced extreme hardship and is currently homeless.

Together with my family we are starting this fund to help him get back on his feet.

Up until a few months ago Manny had been living in a caravan park in the Coffs Harbour area for many years, when a sudden increase in his rent lead to his eviction. At 47 he neither fits the criteria for youth or aged emergency assistance for housing, and is currently living in a tent. Manny is worn down and exhausted by the psychological and physical pressure of being stuck in this predicament.

The housing crisis that NSW is experiencing after the floods in the Northern Rivers got us thinking that perhaps the best, most immediate way to support Manny is to help him purchase a mobile home/camper van. Besides being a protected and safe place to sleep, this type of accommodation would mean that Manny can stay connected to his support network—whom have been integral to his mental stability—and the ability to see his family in different areas of the state.

And importantly, the freedom and ease to find and access the many national parks, free campgrounds and caravan parks.

After falling out of touch for many years, Manny and I are reconnecting and getting to know each other again, which has been deeply moving, confronting and fulfilling for both of us. On a recent visit when Manny began drumming on his lap to a song on the radio I was immediately reminded of the beautiful way music is woven into the fabric of his being and what a truly gifted human he is.

Not only do I want a safe place for him to live but I want him to be able to play music again— for his personal fulfillment, and professionally. It is in that spirit that we launch this appeal.

Together with my family we are seeking donations of any size to help Manny get a home. Please share this with anyone who knows or who may have connected with Manny over the course of his life. I look forward to sharing updates of this journey.

My deepest gratitude for your support.

Love,

Guinny, Stuart, Dida and Orlanda XO