My best friend, Latoya, is in a real jam. She is facing eviction on November 30th if she does not pay her back rent. Latoya is among the most inspirational, funny, intelligent, and passionate people I have ever met. She has such excitement and love for life even though she has never been dealt a fair share. Latoya and I have been close friends since I was ten, and she was 12 years old. My father used to be the board president of All Children's Theatre, a theater company that Latoya and I were a part of. Latoya was in foster care and was a member of the program because of a scholarship.

After getting out of the foster care system, Latoya ended up in an abusive relationship. She had two children with a partner who had put her in the hospital multiple times. Through Latoya's courage, she found safety for herself and her two children and has managed to keep them safe until now. Her son, Mikey, is a senior, and her daughter, Alliyah, is a sophmore in high school in Pawtucket. They are such good, smart kids, and Latoya has been able to do so much for them as a single mother. Alliyah plays varsity volleyball, and Mikey works at 99 Restaurant.

Latoya was letting her best friend live with her and her kids since her friend was in a bad situation. Her friend promised to pay her portion of the rent. Though she did pay rent initially, Latoya’s now ex friend stopped paying, lied that she would pay back rent, and completely bailed and disappeared on Latoya.

Latoya has contacted many housing and rental assistance programs in the State of Rhode Island, and many resources are no longer available. She is on lists for housing but will not get any support until after November 30th. She has been working her ass off at two different jobs to try to make up the difference. Latoya has been dealing with many chronic pain problems due to working so many hours in the restaurant industry. She also had to take a week out of work at the end of October after getting COVID. She will be allowed to continue renting her current apartment on a month-to-month lease if we raise $2,400. We can't let this single mother with two extraordinary kiddos end up homeless right before the holidays. I know I have such a strong community of friends out there. Please, please, please help this incredible momma! I will donate, but I don't have enough money to help her.