I am Cheryl, one of Angel's former caseworkers.

A wonderful young man is in urgent need of assistance. Angel is a 24-year-old former foster youth currently living in Greenbelt, Maryland. He was born under challenging circumstances and lives with two lifelong health conditions: cerebral palsy, which affects his mobility and makes walking difficult, and a chronic blood disorder. Angel’s mother passed away when he was three years old and he has never had a relationship with his father.

He was initially placed in the care of his aunt, but as his medical needs became more complex, she was no longer able to care for him. As a result, Angel entered the foster care system, where he remained until he aged-out at 21.

After aging out of foster care, Angel was granted a Section 8 Housing Voucher to help him begin building a life on his own. Sadly, despite this support, he has struggled to stay afloat. Due to his medical diagnoses, finding and maintaining employment has been extremely difficult and as a result, Angel has not been able to pay the required 30% portion of his rent and utilities since January.

Angel’s leasing office has initiated eviction proceedings, and Angel is at risk of losing his apartment. He has no known family to turn to, and losing his home would be devastating. To prevent eviction, he must raise $3,500 by the end of October.

Angel is in the process of applying for disability services – but that process can take months or years. Former case workers have stepped in to help him contact the Department of Housing, and moving forward, his rent will be fully covered until he is able to find employment. But unless this immediate crisis is resolved, that future assistance won’t matter.

Angel is a great young man who is trying his best to change his circumstances. He recently registered for classes at the local community college and hopes that will open the door to better job opportunities and a more stable future. But, if Angel is ever going to reach that more stable place, he needs a break — and a little help from some real-life angels. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference and is deeply appreciated.