Why I’m Asking for $21,500

As I’m sure you all know, the United States is becoming increasingly hostile to the LGBT community across the country. This hostility is particularly evident in southern states, such as Florida. While living in Florida, I have lost the ability to use the bathroom I feel comfortable in, missed out on employment opportunities, lost access to my HRT, and lost peace of mind. I have received death threats as well as verbal harassment on the streets. I have even begun having nightmares, and I feel like we are reaching a point where my life could be in danger in this state. Over these past months, the Trump administration has massively ramped up its attack on trans people, even going so far as to refer to us as violent terrorists. Any legislation that the Trump administration pushes out will be felt the hardest and the fastest in deep red states like the one I am currently in. I have never liked the idea of asking for donations; however, we are reaching a moment in time where I feel I have little choice in the matter, as this is for my own safety. I currently have about 3 months until my lease is up. I am running out of time.

Moving across the country is a significant step, and I don’t want to sugarcoat the cost. I’m relocating from Florida to Tacoma, Washington, without a car and (as of this writing) without a job already secured. That means every part of this transition: moving, housing, and living expenses, has to be planned out in advance.

Here’s how your support will be used:

1. Moving and Travel: $5,350

I need to ship my essentials and household items safely across the country.

Shipping my stuff: $5,000

One-way plane ticket to Seattle/Tacoma: $350

(Since I can’t drive, flying is my only realistic option.)

2. Housing Costs: $3,900

This ensures I can secure an apartment without risking homelessness during the transition.

First month’s rent: $1,200 (actual apartment may be higher)

Security deposit (1 month’s rent): $1,200

Temporary housing (hotel or short-term rental while paperwork finalizes): $1,000

Application/admin fees & initial utility deposits: $500

3. Additional housing costs: $2,000

I’ll need to replace or purchase essentials like a bed, kitchenware, and other daily-use items.

Furniture and household basics: $2,000

4. Living Expenses (6-Month Buffer): $5,372

Groceries & basics for 6 months: $3,000

This covers food while I search for stable employment.

Public transits (6 months): $2,372

I won’t have a car, so public transit will be my lifeline.

5. Safety Net: $2,000

Emergency/medical/unexpected expenses: $2,000

Cross-country moves rarely go exactly as planned.

Total Before Fees: $18,622

10% cushion for unexpected costs: +$1,862

GoFundMe processing fees (~3%): +$1,016

Grand Total Requested: $21,500

I understand asking for this much is unrealistic, so any amount, even if it’s only a fraction of the asking portion, will help. But the amount I’ve asked for gives me enough to make the move, secure housing, and cover the first six months in Tacoma while I find steady work. Without this cushion, the risk of falling into a financial crisis during the transition is very high. So while I feel horrible for asking for such a high amount, I hope you all can understand.

Every contribution, big or small, helps me move forward to a safer and more stable life. Your kindness will quite literally help me start over in a place that’s not only kinder, but safer for me. Thank you, all of you.

With great appreciation,

KJW (Bee YGSGF)