Hello, my name is Juniper and I’m a 28yo black trans woman that just moved to NYC from Arkansas. I move up here because it’s always been a dream but more importantly to find some community of folks like me as well as sanctuary from the oppressive forces pressing in from all side on people like me. I thought it would be safer in a blue state where I can find community to support and mutually aid to weather the storms. Due to a few factors I was only able to save enough to afford my first months rent to get me up here. I was moving with the understanding from my job that I would be able to work remote for the first month, which would allow me time to find a job here to support myself moving forward but unfortunately, days before moving i recieved news from HR that i would in fact not be able to work remote due to being an hourly employee, leaving my team without support and me without security for the future. I decided to move anyway because I did not feel safe staying in the south knowing that the legislative session was about to resume and my rights a safety was likely first on the chopping block. While I am so greatful to now be somewhere I feel more safe, I have found it incredibly difficult to find employment that would grant me security to stay housed. I have spent everyday tirelessly searching for work. I have applied to numerous jobs daily and had several interviews that went nowhere. I have run around this city introducing myself to places that I’ve applied at to increase my chances, contacted agencies that might be able to assist and have yet to here back form anyone. I will not give up. I am committed to putting in the effort it takes to make it, even if that means being homeless for a time. As this first week has gone by with no prospects of future employment, I grow more concerned for my ability to meet the deadline to pay my rent for December and on. I have made this go fund me in hope to receive help and donations that would be put towards my rent and utilities for December and January to allow me time to find employment. I would also appreciate any leads on jobs or loans anyone would be willing and able to offer. If you’ve made it this far, thank you for your consideration.