My name is Robin Paschall and I will be 36-years old tomorrow (Feb 10). I work with children with autism and  various other disabilities, as well as at-risk youth and families. I am also very active in my community with fostering animals, starting farmer's markets, playing music and promoting various community philanthropies. I also enjoy anything water-related and am an active member in several local clubs. As a survivor (and thriver) of domestic violence, I also participate in outreach for various events throughout the year. |

I have lived on my own since I was 15. My ex-partner (and abuser) and I moved in together 11 years ago. After 5 years, I gathered the strength and courage to end our relationship. At that time, I had nothing and nowhere to go. After getting my landlord involved, my ex agreed to physically leave the house. Over the past 6 years since then, I have done an incredible amount of healing and growth. I have also finally been able to make "our" house finally feel like "MY" home. During that time I also put myself through college (twice), and secured a wonderful career working with children. I have raised a happy healthy pack of fur-babies, as well as started a small business selling organic vegetables and house plants.  I have chosen to do all of this while remaining esentially single, living alone and working my way up (those school loans are a killer!!) 

So, here I am now doing the thing that absolutely goes against the grain of my independent self-sufficient, "mother hen" ways. I have to ask for help. My home, and most of my belongings (sentimental and non) were lost in a fire and I do not have insurance. A candle was left unattended all day (I was unaware that the candle had been lit). Luckily when I got home (and was the first person on the scene) I was able to get my dog out of the house.  We are separted at this time. My sweet dog, Wili, has been able to stay with a friend while I am figuring things out. In addition to this unfortunate accident, my landlord has decided to terminate my lease to my home so that he can move his new girlfriend into the house once it is repaired. This has left me homeless and without many essentials. American Redcross is not able to assist with housing. I am doing my best to keep everything together and not let too many things fall through the cracks, but there is definitely an overwhelming amount of things to deal with immediately as well as figuring out the long term.

I am hoping to raise enough money to afford a deposit, first month rent, utilities and moving costs. Anything raised over the goal amount will be donated to the local fire department. I realized that if every person in my list basically 'bought me a cup of coffee' (i.e., just donated $5), that I can reach my goal and have made some to donate to the fire department as well!

I am beyond grateful to anyone and everyone for their thoughts, prayers, support and donations.  It is because of you that we will find shelter and start rebuilding, the phoenix rising from the ashes. Thank you thank you for your strength.