I recently moved to the Midwest to live a quieter life while focusing on my long-neglected mental/physical health. I got a cheap 3-month spot in a town near my destination to hold me over while I shopped for an apartment. I found a dream place in a great location with many job opportunities/transit nearby - I had become very optimistic about the whole situation, especially since I'd already seen marked improvements in my health.

I agreed to sublet the place and sent the money to secure the apartment. The individual I sublet from has since left town, blocked my number, and pocketed the money. I'm still responsible for the apartment, according to the leasing agent. It seems it was a lease takeover conveyed to me to be a sublet by the former tenant so that he could keep my cash.

To hold me over until I get a job, I've applied for government food assistance and friends that have agreed to help me move into the new apartment, so I'm covered on those fronts. Unfortunately, there's no way I can make back another deposit/rent and pay bills for my current place in time for the January move-in.

Anything you can do would be immensely appreciated; no amount is too small.

Thank you so so much.