Dear friends, family, and kind strangers,

I never wanted to ask for help like this again - especially now, when so many in our city are struggling with greater hardships. But after a year of fighting to stay afloat, I'm learning that swallowing my pride might be the only way forward.

While juggling full-time studies and mental health I'm battling chronic pain from work-related back injuries that have left me with several limitations. Countless job applications go unanswered, unemployment benefits ran out months ago, and credit card debt keeps growing. The loss of my beloved Iggy added both emotional and financial strain to this impossible situation.

My mother Irma - herself facing challenges - continues to sacrifice everything to keep me afloat. It kills me to add to her burdens when so many local families are facing their own crises.

I need legal help to break this cycle, but attorney fees feel impossible right now. If you can spare anything, it would mean one less bill my mom covers and one step closer to me standing on my own feet.

I know these are tough times for everyone. If you can't give, I completely understand - just sharing this would mean the world. Thank you for reading, and for your kindness when so much kindness is needed everywhere.

With so much gratitude,

Albert Chacón IV