Hey, y'all,

My name is Jihad Milhem. I am an actor and writer who just moved to Albuquerque from the Denver area. I came here explicitly to pursue more on-camera work as an actor. That is something that demands an up-to-date phone for self-tapes, emails, downloads, editing, and even the occasional important phone call.

I also work as an Instacart shopper, a gig economy job done over an app on my phone. I do this as a way to make ends meet while remaining available for any acting work that comes along. As the main tool of Instacarting, my phone working and being able to do basic functions is vital.

Currently, my phone's camera is beginning to die and I'm slowly running out of data on the phone itself. Thank you, planned obsolescence. This makes self-taping difficult. As well as numerous aspects of Instacarting.

A new phone, and more specifically a new iPhone 14 pro, would streamline my work as an actor self-taping at home. As well as ensure my ability to respond quickly to verbal and written opportunities. Not to mention making Instacart work as efficient and profitable as possible.

I am also asking for help with this purchase to lower my monthly expenses overall. I've always leased a phone from my provider while on a single plan. This has meant my phone bill has usually been over $110-$120 for most of my adult life. I've owned my phone for two years now, and the difference the $30-$40 makes per month has been enormous.

If I can own my new phone outright from the start I'll be able to start a cheap plan with Mint or Google Fi and pay even less per month (lowering it an additional $20-$40). Allowing me to use that money to pay off credit card debt and invest in better at-home recording equipment.

The amount I'm trying to raise ($1,500) is the $1,400 for the phone I've determined I need. My siblings (shout out to Sabreen, Sara, and Ali) gave me an Apple gift card for $300. I'll use the gift card and the remaining $100 towards getting a case, screen protector, and headphones.

Once we've achieved the fundraising goal of $1,500 I'll be able to buy the phone and all the accompanying accessories outright. Leaving nothing but the monthly wifi, talk, and text payment. This will lower my monthly cellphone expense by $40-$50. That's compared to it being $50-$60 more per month than what it is now if I were to lease the same phone.

It's almost my birthday (April 23rd) and I usually raise money for different charities or organizations I believe in. This year is different. In the wake of a major move across the country and investment in on-camera work rather than theatre I am in a tight financial situation. So, I thought I'd ask for a donation to me on my birthday.

I am taking initiative this year to prioritize my financial health and create more opportunities in film and television for myself as an actor. Donating towards the cost of this phone will help me realize both of these goals more efficiently and effectively.

Thanks for clicking the link and taking the time to read this. Please give what you can and consider sharing this link with others.

Peace & Love Y'all,

Jihad "Jay" Milhem