Hello,

Never did I ever think I would be reaching out like this. I'm the oldest sister and if you know me, you know that I am a staunch “pick yourself up by the bootstraps” and “I’ll handle it myself” kind of girl, my whole family is, but things are reaching a breaking point, and we need help.

A few months ago, the lives of my brothers and sisters and I had quite an upheaval. My mom, who was their provider, was abruptly no longer able to live with them or financially support them in any way. (I’m not going to go into details about that here, this is not about her or my other two siblings involved in the situation, this is about helping Jacob and Aurora). As a result, my youngest brother and sister were left without the financial stability they needed. Myself, family, my other siblings and friends have rallied, and borrowed, and used credit to do the best we can to help them get on their own two feet the last few months, but we are falling short. One of my other brothers was recently laid off and my husband was hospitalized and on disability for 3 months right at the beginning of this ordeal. Unfortunately, the 5 bedroom home the kids are living in was meant for a whole family and not just a teenager and a young 20-something, so their rent alone has been daunting. Their lease ends in July though and we will be able to figure something more manageable out. My little sister even got her first job, but it’s still hasn’t been enough. We are hoping to get Aurora into an 8-week vocational course next month, that she can attend after work, so we get her some better options and offer her more opportunities and the ability to provide for herself. She had planned on attending college full time, but sadly, plans had to be shifted. My little brother has been working incredibly hard, 50 to 60 hours a week, but again, he didn’t anticipate having to support a household suddenly.

As a family, we’ve always tried to stay strong, we’ve been through our fair share, but the reality of this situation is overwhelming. We’re overwhelmed emotionally, mentally, and financially. We are sticking together and supporting each other, but the financial struggle has reached its limit. We are trying to cover basic living expenses, and ensure they stay on track with their education and personal needs and hopefully, in the near future, reach a point of being able to support themselves.

With my mom’s situation causing a huge financial strain, we are doing everything we can to keep Rory and Jake safe, stable, and supported during this complicated hardship. But the truth is, we need your help.

The funds raised will go directly to:

• Rent and bills

• Vocational school for Aurora, so she can have a better income by August

• Food and daily living expenses

• Moving expenses for Jake and Aurora

• Paying off the $1100 debt that was left in Aurora’s name that did not belong to her

• Medical care and expenses

Our family is incredibly grateful for any support you can offer, whether it’s a financial contribution or simply sharing this campaign with your network. Every little bit helps, and your generosity can make a world of difference in mine and my brother’s and sister’s lives. Just to be as clear as possible, these funds will not be going to the support of other family members. This is for my youngest two siblings and getting them financially independent and in a place where they can cope with the emotional turmoil we’re going through without having to worry about being evicted or going without necessities during all of it.

Thank you so much for your kindness, support, and consideration during this difficult time. We are forever grateful for your compassion.

With sincere love and appreciation,

Taralyn