Hello!

My name is Jaymi and I have worked in the entertainment industry since 2010, when I moved to NYC. I have lived in the same apartment since 2010 as well.

When the WGA strike and simultaneous/subsequent SAG-AFTRA strike hit last year everything in my industry slowed and then stopped. Although I am not a member of either of those guilds, and was not personally on strike, the strikes halted almost all work in my industry and therefore there were no jobs available.

Even though the strikes were resolved last fall/winter, unfortunately the studios and production companies have been very slow to begin new projects. This means that many of us are still out of work.

My last full time job in my craft ended in January 2023. In NYC, unemployment only pays out for 6 months. So in July of 2023 I stopped receiving unemployment. While I have applied for many jobs, both in and outside my industry, and picked up any gigs I can throughout this time, it has not been enough to pay bills. This means that I have completely diminished all savings and maxed out all of my credit cards.

As a long time tenant of 13+ years, my landlord has been as understanding as possible but I am now over 7 months in arrears in rent. This is over $14,000 USD. He suggested and I applied for assistance from the city but I was rejected, due to not currently having gainful employment.

I am now at the precipice of being evicted and it's a devastating prospect.

I am humbled by the idea that I need to ask for help but I have no other options at this point. I have exhausted all other avenues and this is my last resort.

I have set the goal for $20,000.00 USD because, not only do I need to pay my landlord for the rent in arrears, but also, if I do remain in my home, then I will need to continue to pay rent for upcoming months, until I am able to secure long term full time employment. And also, due to the maxing out of personal loans and credit cards, I have beyond just rent and utilities to pay/repay.

I truly appreciate any and all assistance, even the tiniest of amounts, as I know so many of us are struggling.

Please know, I am now and will continue to pursue gainful employment, that all funds donated will go to rent and bills, and that I do not take for granted any small amount given. Even $1.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and even if you are unable to assist financially, sharing with your social networks would be greatly appreciated.

Have a wonderful day!