My name is Jerome, and I am a Licensed Blind Vendor for the Business Enterprise Program (BEP), a division of Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA). My current facility is a Micro Market at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) located in Atlanta. Unfortunately, due to the recent government shutdown, my location was closed, or open in minimal capacity for over a month. This sudden loss of business meant I had to use up all of my savings, max out my credit cards, and even take on high-interest loans just to keep up with basic expenses. On top of that, with sales so low, I was forced to throw away outdated products, which made things even harder financially.

Now that the shutdown is over, I am facing urgent financial needs. I need help to pay for rent, utilities, and insurance, as well as to restock my inventory so I can get my business back on its feet. The support from this fundraiser will make a real difference in helping me recover from this difficult period and continue serving my community at the CDC.

Any help you can provide would mean so much to me. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering a donation. Your support will help me rebuild and move forward after this challenging setback.

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