My name is Leonard, and I’m 50 years old. I’ve spent most of my life working hard, building a career I was proud of as a Property Master in the Film/TV industry. My work provided for my wife and our two little girls (ages 9 and 11), and for years I believed I was giving them a stable, secure life.

But the past three years have been a massive struggle. Work in my field has dried up. The “day” jobs I have taken on don’t make ends meet. I was recently hired on a big job. I thought “god had blessed me” But it wasn’t meant to be, I was let go after only working for 8 Days. Anyone that knows me, knows I’m a beast and will work tirelessly for success. But, Only 8 Days given. Absolutely crushed inside. Devastating, Crushed and Defeated.

For my family since the strikes, I have drained my entire retirement savings, taken on heavy debt, even borrowed against our home just to make it from month to month. We have no health insurance. The bills keep piling up. I have been travel state to state sleeping in my car at times in hopes of something.

I’ve reached the point no parent ever wants to reach: wondering what else I can sell or sacrifice just to keep the lights on, to put food on the table, and keep my family safe. It’s hard to describe how crushing it feels to be rejected for even the simplest part/full-time jobs while trying to provide for the people you love most.

I never thought I’d be here — writing this to strangers, asking for help. But right now, my family needs it. If you’re able to give anything at all, it will help us cover essentials and keep us afloat while I continue searching employment.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read this. And thank you for any help you’re able to give.

God Bless.