Help Lani Avoid Eviction — A NYC Artist in Crisis

Hi, my name is Lani Barry. I'm a professional makeup artist and licensed esthetician based in Brooklyn. I’ve been working in the Film & TV industry in New York for several years, but over the past year, my world has turned upside down — and now I urgently need help to stay in my home.

Due to the collapse of the NYC film job market — worsened by last year’s WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, and more work being outsourced to Canada and Europe — I’ve been out of steady work for months. Despite this, I’ve done everything I can to stay afloat:

I’ve applied to over 100 jobs, both inside and outside my industry — from barista and retail work to esthetics and production gigs.

I’ve taken career workshops, reached out to contacts, and even explored online teaching to create new income streams.

I currently receive $341.25 per week in unemployment, which barely covers food and basic living expenses.

I’ve done everything I can to keep going. Some of you reading this may already know that this past winter, I went weeks without heat in my apartment while trying to fight for repairs through housing court. That alone was a struggle — and now, on top of that, I’m at serious risk of losing my home entirely.

As of May 2025, I owe $9,000 in back rent, and by June 1st, that will increase to $10,800. My landlord has already threatened legal action, and eviction is a real possibility if I can’t catch up.

I never imagined I’d be in a position where I’d have to ask strangers for help. But I’ve exhausted every other option. If you’re able to contribute — even just $5 or $10 — it would make a real difference. Your donation will go directly toward paying my rental arrears and helping me avoid eviction while I continue my job search and try to rebuild.

Thank you so much for reading, for sharing, and for caring.

With gratitude,

Lani Barry