This story uses pseudonyms to protect the identities and safety of M and LB, a social worker who has supported them throughout their journey.

Hello, my name is LB and I’m reaching out on behalf of M, a courageous man and refugee from Western Africa, who has endured unimaginable hardships. M’s story is one of strength, survival, and the urgent need for community support as he works to heal from years of physical and emotional trauma.

His Story

M once served proudly in the military of his home country, dedicating his life to service. However, he became a victim of brutal torture at the hands of his family and community due to his LGBTQ+ identity — acts of violence that left him with chronic physical injuries and deep emotional scars. The circumstances that forced him to flee Western Africa were not just political, but deeply personal and life-threatening.

M was resettled as a refugee in Boston after completing the extensive vetting process. Here he hoped to find safety and the chance to rebuild his life. However, life as a refugee has brought its own challenges. M had secured stable employment, but due to severe mental health struggles including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, compounded by ongoing physical pain, he eventually lost his job. M is hopeful that with additional psychiatric support he can regain employment and become self-sufficient once again. He continues to apply for jobs despite the circumstances, determined to return to work.

Despite his resilience, M now finds himself in an extremely vulnerable position. He has been relying on a refugee resettlement agency that has supported him far beyond the typical duration of their program. However, facing severe budget cuts and with their resources now exhausted, the agency is no longer able to provide the assistance he urgently needs. M will lose his housing at the end of August.

Thankfully a hospital team is rendering treatment, but he needs immediate community support to cover his basic living expenses and maintain stable housing over the next few months.

Why He Needs Your Help

M urgently needs:

Without immediate financial support M will be on the street or in a shelter, which his medical team has identified as deeply destabilizing due to his psychiatric profile. This will also put his ability to access the care he needs at serious risk.

How You Can Make a Difference

Your donation, no matter how small, will directly fund:

M has shown extraordinary courage by surviving, but no one should have to face such a difficult journey alone. Together, we can help him reclaim his dignity, health, and hope for a better future.

Please Donate & Share

If you’re unable to donate, you can still make a powerful impact by sharing this campaign with your network. Every share brings us one step closer to giving M the stability and care he deserves.

Let’s show him that compassion knows no borders.

Fundraising Goal: $5,000

(This goal will cover 4 months of housing, food, transportation, and essential living expenses.)