It is no exaggeration to say that I would not be where I am today were it not for the selfless actions of my mother.  Raising 2 boys as a single-mom was no easy feat, and her sacrifices impacted me and my brother greatly.  Life has been difficult for my mom over these last several years, and we recently moved her to California so that she could be closer to our family and so that we could watch over her and help her.  The warmer temperatures here compared to Chicago were a great plus, too!  After spending a few months renting a room with a church family, she is now ready to move into her own place, something she hasn't experienced in years.  Because of the many setbacks she has experienced, she has very little to begin this new phase of her life.  She literally moved to California with just 2 suitcases, which was everything she owned in this world.  I'm doing this fundraiser so that she might be able to get off to a good, fresh, new start in her new apartment.  She receives a modest income through social security to manage her needs, but she has very little margin to get settled, in addition to a few medical issues that have occurred since arriving here.  The money raised will go to furnish her new place, as well as take care of some of her medical needs.  Not everyone is in a position where they might be able to help, I totally understand that, but if God has blessed you and you would consider being a blessing to my mom, I would greatly appreciate it. For my church family, it's also no exaggeration to say that I would not be your pastor today were it not for the incredibly strong foundation I was given by a single mom who loved God, loved His Word, and loved His Church.  Thank you for your kind consideration, and we appreciate your prayers and support.