Hi, my name is Jessica Benton. I’m a senior at Prairie View A&M University, majoring in Communications with a minor in Marketing. I’m reaching out for support after an unexpected loss that has left me without most of my belongings.

At the end of the last school year, I didn’t have transportation to return home to Dallas. In an emergency, I left my belongings with a friend who lives in Brookside Meadows, an off-campus apartment complex, and took a Greyhound bus home. I couldn’t bring everything with me, so I trusted that my things would be safe.

Unfortunately, over the summer, Brookside Meadows hired a cleaning company to clear out certain townhomes. Due to a mistake, my friend’s apartment was added to the list. As a result, nearly all of my belongings were thrown away — including 90% of my clothes, my TV, and a large tote filled with personal items. My friend also lost everything in her room.

All I have left are the items I packed in my suitcase when I left. While we are taking steps to seek compensation, that process takes time. Right now, I need help replacing the essentials — especially clothes — so I can start my senior year with confidence and peace of mind.

Any support, whether through donations or prayers, means the world to me. Thank you for reading and for helping me get back on my feet.