Hello folks! I'm starting this fundraiser to help my friend Mariana after they were forced to stop their graduate degree because of recent laws. They need financial help during this unplanned transition until they can get back on their feet- below is their story in their own words. Thank you!

“Since 2024, I have been attending the Counseling masters program at Northeastern Illinois University, which has provided me with graduate student financial aid to cover my rent while my part time job covers my other expenses. I was planning to continue the program this semester but, after finding out the changes apply to current students, have been forced to take a financial leave of absence because of the Trump administration’s legal changes and cuts to the federal student loan program, which went into effect July 2026.

I am currently searching and applying for part time and full time work, but am unfortunately limited in what jobs I can apply for because I am disabled (diabetes, autoimmune hypothyroidism) and can only work from my home office. As this is an unplanned life transition for me, I am requesting assistance to pay my October and November rent ($1000/month) while I search for jobs (any additional funds will go towards December rent). Thank you so much for donating and/ or sharing, I’m very grateful to my community for all the support."