Help Alice Keep the Lights On

My name is Alice, and I live in Charles Town, West Virginia. I’m reaching out because I’m facing a sudden and overwhelming financial crisis after my roommate abandoned me without paying their share of the bills for three months. With no close family to turn to—my parents have passed away—I’ve been left to handle everything on my own. I tried to evict my roommate but couldn’t afford the legal fees, and now I’m struggling to keep up with basic utilities.

I recently received a shut-off notice from First Energy, and my electricity will be disconnected next Thursday if I can’t pay the overdue amount. I’ve already experienced my water being shut off for three weeks, which was a difficult and stressful time. Even after the water was restored, I was charged for the period I didn’t have service. My entire paycheck is going toward keeping my car so I can get to work, and I’m in the process of applying for a 401k hardship withdrawal to get my house payment current. Despite all my efforts, I’m falling behind and running out of options.

Once I get through this shock, I’m determined to reorganize my life and plan to take on a part-time job to stabilize my finances. Right now, I need help to keep my electricity on and avoid falling further behind. Any support will go directly to paying my First Energy bill and helping me stay in my home while I work to get back on my feet. Thank you for reading and considering a donation—your kindness means more than I can say.