Help Jay Weiss into Assisted Living

Be honest: when you picture a homeless person, you have a certain image.

Now, think of your cousin, bright, funny, creative, talented – and so seriously ill at age 60 so that he is unable to work, make money, pay rent or care for himself.

Do the two images have anything to do with each other?

WE NEVER THINK IT CAN HAPPEN TO US. But it has happened to Jay Weiss. Since a heart attack and open-heart surgery in 2009, Jay’s heart has been worsening, including a major, untreatable blockage, bouts of racing blood pressure which cause fainting spells, and perhaps worse, loss of sight due to macular degeneration. Since October he is using a wheelchair and often needs oxygen.

He was working until last August and has applied for Medicaid and Social Security Disability. To date his application is 'in process' and he hasn't received anything. Despite constant follow-up with the agencies, as well as his congressional rep, his place in the queue is undetermined. It can take months to get a response and funds.

Once that is approved, he will receive enough monthly to cover his expenses, retroactive back to August. But the problem is now. Since October, Jay has been in SEVEN medical facilities. He has run out of insurance coverage and is now staying in a rented apartment from which he is being evicted for unpaid rent.

Jay is in immediate need of a home and medical assistance. His is alone, with only his 13 year old daughter nearby. His ex has been actively trying to help him find a solution but the best she has found is a assisted living facility which includes a room, meals and limited assistance for $2,500 a month. He would need $6,500+ to move in, which would cover 2 months plus fees, deposit, etc. By that time he hopes to have his Medicaid and Disability approved and should be in liveable shape.

We estimate that Jay will need $10,000 which will cover the immediate need for his rent in assisted living, moving expenses, insurance, food and transportation until he receives his disability and retroactive benefits. We will evaluate this appeal if he receives the retroactive funds before we reach our goal.

For now, Our cousin Jay is nearly blind, has no money, no income, and faces eviction.

We are a very small family and are doing everything we collectively can, but none of us can raise this kind of money, even together. So we are appealing to you, Jay’s tribe of many friends, and even our own friends, who have proven to be generous and openhearted for those in need.

Please help Jay now. Your contribution is critical and very much appreciated, no matter the amount. We've all seen the pleas for others and responded. Every bit will help.

Just imagine your cousin and that homeless person side by side. It can happen to any of us - and it has.

PS – Jay has a new phone number as of February. Please reach him through Messenger to reconnect by text.