I am creating this fundraiser because I am trying to move from a difficult living situation into a safe, stable home of my own. Right now, I live in a rented room in a shared house with a shared bathroom. While I am grateful to have a place to stay, this environment has become very challenging for me. I live with schizoaffective disorder, social anxiety, autism, and PTSD from past trauma and abuse. These challenges make having a quiet, private, and secure space extremely important for my mental health and my ability to function day-to-day. I also have two cats, Starshine and Sydney, who are my family and my biggest source of comfort and companionship. They have been there for me through some of the hardest moments in my life. My goal is to find a home where we can all have stability, privacy, and a safe place to live together.

I currently live on SSI, which is about $1,233 per month. My rent alone is $850, and after paying for food, basic necessities, and other expenses, there is very little left each month. I am doing my best to manage, but saving enough money for a security deposit, first month's rent, moving expenses, and apartment costs has been nearly impossible. The funds raised will help me transition into my own apartment and cover expenses such as a security deposit, first month's rent, application fees, moving costs, and other necessities needed to get established.

I am asking for help because I am trying to build a safer and more stable future for myself and my two cats. Any donation, no matter the amount, would make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing my fundraiser would also mean so much and could help me reach someone who can. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping me work toward a place I can finally call home.

Two things that have helped me through difficult times is podcasting and photography. Podcasting gives me a creative outlet and a way to connect with others, even when my mental health challenges make everyday life difficult. Having a stable home of my own would give me a better environment to continue creating, healing, and building a more independent future.

Approximate cost breakdown:

Security deposit: $1,000–$1,500

First month's rent: $1,000–$1,500

Moving costs/supplies: $500

Application fees/essentials: $200–$500