Hi, my name is Mal, and I’m a music director and teacher. I’ve always poured myself into creating music and community. Recently, I lost one of my regular directing jobs after refusing to participate in a show that was not taking correct racial casting into consideration. I stand by that decision, but it means I’ll be making $6,000 less this year.

I’ve fallen behind on essentials and without that income, I have no hope of catching up, despite working my regular full-time job with overtime, dog walking, and working multiple theatre shows. I’m currently a month behind on my mortgage, car payment, and two months behind on my utilities — I just got a shutoff notice for my power and water. My car also desperately needs attention: all four of my tires are so worn that the threads are showing (replacing all 4 tires costs $1,200), which is unsafe, and the check engine light keeps coming on. A diagnostic alone costs $150.

On top of that, I have school fees for my kids ($250) and my oldest needs to begin seeing a neurologist for his chronic migraines, which will bring additional expenses. At home, I’ve been struggling for six months with a severe flea infestation that I can no longer handle on my own. Hiring an exterminator to treat the house and yard will cost about $1,500.

Here’s what I need to get back on my feet:

$5,000 to catch up on my mortgage, car, and utilities

$1,200 to replace all four tires

$150 for car diagnostics (plus possible repairs)

$250 for school fees

$1,500 for extermination treatment

Total needed: $7,950

This is not easy for me to ask, but I’ve reached a point where I cannot get through this without help. If you’re able to donate, I would be so grateful. If you can’t give, sharing this campaign also means the world to me.

Thank you for reading and for supporting me and my family during this really difficult time.