Hi, my name is Estee Oelofse, and I’m asking for a little help as I rebuild my life during a difficult transition.

I came to the U.S. from South Africa with my mom and sister to live here permanently after my dad passed away in 2013. My mom used to tell me, “Wherever the pen lands, that’s where we’ll build our next chapter.” She was right - we built a beautiful life here until cancer took her in 2019.

Since then, I’ve done everything I can to stand on my own two feet - earning my citizenship, building a career in tech sales, and doing my best to live by the lessons she left behind: be kind, work hard, and never stop believing in new beginnings.

Earlier this year, I lost my job and then my apartment. My family has been kind enough to let me stay with them temporarily, but unfortunately, it’s not a feasible long-term solution for Gypsy (my sweet cat) and me, as the property will be winterized and closed down by October 25th, 2025.

I’ve been actively interviewing with several companies in the Manchester, NH, and Greater Boston area, and I’m confident that one of these opportunities will come through soon. I just need a small bridge to get there - enough to secure a safe apartment for Gypsy and me and to cover essential expenses while I finalize my next role.

I’m not asking for a handout; I’m asking for a chance to breathe again and start over with stability and dignity. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps me cross this bridge to independence.

Funds will go toward:

• Apartment deposit + first month’s rent

• Moving and essential living costs

• Temporary housing during the transition

If you can’t donate, sharing this means the world to me.

Thank you for believing in me and for helping me create a future my parents would be proud of!

With love and gratitude,

Estee & Gypsy