Facing Homelessness: A Desperate Plea for Help

Hello, I’m having to put myself out there and ask for help. Unfortunately, I am in a desperate situation. I’ve had life-threatening medical conditions for the last three years. Because of my medical conditions, I lost my career at the end of October last year. As I’m navigating my way through this difficult process (I still have another upcoming surgery at the end of September and other conditions), I find myself in a dire emergency.

I’ve lived in my rented home for almost 19 years. I was informed a couple of weeks ago that there are extremely expensive repairs that have to be made to the house and garage both just to bring it up to code. It’s a 150-year-old house and the landlord decided not to go ahead with those repairs. They instead have decided to no longer lease the property out anymore and condemn it. Their plan is to tear it down and rent the land out to local farmers to plant. This was understandable but came as a shock.

Now, as I lay bedridden, I am in a panic having to scramble and find a place to live. That is an extremely difficult task in my condition, one I never thought I’d ever be in. I’m bedridden, reduced to using a walker and/or electric scooter for mobility while going to doctor appointments. My adult son has done an amazing job caring for me and the household on his limited VA disability income. We can manage on his income (I’ve lost everything) for everyday life; however, with my savings depleted and no income, there isn’t any money to move.

The rental market is difficult and without my income, it’s nearly impossible to find a landlord that doesn’t require 3X the rent, proving income, and upfront is first month, last month’s rent plus security deposit. Not to mention the moving truck, etc. Since I lost my career and income last fall, I was only able to get unemployment for two months. I was then required by the state to apply for disability benefits. I have done that and I am in a waiting position. I hired a disability lawyer (they only get paid a percentage of my disability when I am awarded). It’s a long process.

We found a duplex in Milwaukee and the landlord was very kind and understanding of my situation. If we can get the money for moving expenses, it would prevent us from homelessness, essentially living in an SUV. I am devastated to find myself in this situation. Understanding that we are living in a less than stellar economy, I would like anyone considering donating to know how very much I appreciate any help. I would never ask if it wasn’t an emergency situation. Every dollar counts and if you’d like to help but cannot donate, please share this post as time is of the essence. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your consideration.