Help Marie and Her Teens Stay Warm This Winter

At Norris Square Neighborhood Project, we have the privilege of working with incredible families in our community. Today, we’re reaching out to help one of those families during a critical time of need. Marie, a devoted mother of two teenagers who participate in our programs, is facing overwhelming challenges this winter.

Despite her resilience and determination to provide a stable and loving home, Marie has been without gas in her home for nearly three months, leaving her family without hot water and facing mounting bills.

We’re asking for your support to help cover the costs of restoring gas service and easing the financial burden on Marie and her children. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference. Let's help Marie create a warm and hopeful environment for her family this season.

Marie writes:

My name is Marie, and I am blessed to be the mother of two amazing teenagers who I love deeply. Every day, I work hard to instill in them values, respect, and the drive to grow and improve despite life's challenges.

Our journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced many difficult situations that have tested me emotionally and financially, and my children have felt these hardships too. After enduring years of difficulty, I made the painful decision to divorce their father for the sake of our peace and well-being. I knew this choice would bring financial struggles, but I chose peace because I wanted a better future for us.

I come from a family of brave, hardworking women—my mother, aunts, and grandmother—and I’ve tried to live up to their example. I told myself, “You can do this too,” and with faith in God, I pushed forward. I continued to work and support my family, but my health took a toll. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and arthritis, and I had to make another tough decision to prioritize my physical and mental health.

Though it was difficult, I took a step back to focus on healing so I could continue to fight for my children’s future. I’ve been relying on government aid and driving for Uber Eats when my health allows, but it hasn’t been enough. Right now, my children and I are living without gas in our home. For nearly three months, we’ve had no hot water. I applied for assistance, but because I’m currently unemployed, I wasn’t approved.

The cold water in our home makes even basic tasks, like bathing, painful and challenging. Hearing my children complain or seeing them get sick breaks my heart as a mother. I feel helpless at times, but I know that with treatment and therapy, I can regain my strength and get back to work.

My faith keeps me going. I believe that with help, we can overcome this difficult moment. Once I’m back on my feet, I am determined to give back to my community, to help others, and to work with the children in my church. That has always been my passion, and I know God has a purpose for my struggles.

Thank you for taking the time to hear my story. Any support you can offer will make a world of difference to my family and help us take the next step forward.