Hello, my name is Edmoni Jackson, a rising junior psychology major, criminology minor at Howard University. I’ve maintained a 4.0 GPA through both semesters of my freshman year and a 3.9 GPA in my second year. I have always prioritized excellence, even when faced with some of the most difficult moments of my life, and attending a University as illustrious as Howard has been a dream that my mother and I have fought for with everything we have.
Today, I am humbly reaching out for help, praying that judgment from others does not come alongside it.
Howard University is currently undergoing a significant financial aid crisis. Many students, myself included, have experienced delayed aid packages, a lack of clear communication, and last-minute balances that block registration. I recently had to clear a $10,000 balance at the end of my sophomore year just to register for the psychology classes required for my major that still haven’t been made available, even after all that effort and expense.
Through it all, I’ve kept pushing because my education means that much to me. However, due to unforeseen and heartbreaking changes in my family’s situation, it is no longer enough.
My mother, who is my sole financial supporter, lost her job at DHL due to a warehouse relocation. She is now unemployed, and even more devastating, we were evicted from our apartment.
During my freshman year, my mom made the unthinkable sacrifice of selling our family home just so I could attend Howard. Now, she’s left with no income and no place to call home, yet still trying to help me chase my dream. Despite all this, she’s never once asked me to stop pursuing my education, and actually does not like asking for help. BUT I see how much it’s costing her emotionally, physically, and financially, and can no longer stay quiet.
To relieve the weight on her shoulders, I’ve worked tirelessly while enrolled full-time:
- I work at Smoothie King on U Street after my classes.
- I do hair on campus, helping other students feel confident while earning every dollar I can.
- I serve as a mentor to freshmen, offering them guidance and encouragement as they begin their own Howard journey.
This GoFundMe is truly my last option to continue attending the university I love. My balance threatens to derail my education, despite everything I’ve worked for and everything my mother has sacrificed.
Your contribution would not only help me stay enrolled at Howard University, but it would also give my mother and I a moment to breathe.
If you’re able to donate, share, or simply send words of encouragement rather than judgment, know that you’re making an impact far beyond one student. You’re helping a family keep a promise and helping a young Black woman turn resilience into reality.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
With gratitude,
Edmoni Jackson
Howard University, Class of 2027