I never thought I'd be here. I've spent over a decade building a career in software development, surviving layoff after layoff (four in six years), each time picking myself back up and starting over. But this last one has brought me to my knees, and I'm running out of time.

I was laid off in November. The little savings I'd managed to rebuild is gone. My car was repossessed. And now, after months of applying to hundreds of jobs, doing everything I could think of to make ends meet, I'm facing eviction. My landlord has been incredibly patient, but without a plan, we'll have to leave by the end of the month.

I'm a single mom. My son is 18 and working at Goodwill. His job has been more stable than my so-called professional career in software development, but it’s not enough to cover rent. We've already started packing and making a plan for staying in a tent at campgrounds. I tried to protect him from the worst of it, but I’ve failed. That hurts more than anything else.

I've tried everything I could think of. I launched a small home bakery (MadBatter Bakery & Brews) and did roadside stands, farmer's markets and festivals. I applied for hourly jobs, done gig work, odd jobs, anything. I even tried selling feet pics. I have a strong referral for a job that could change everything, but the company has been ghosting me for weeks after the final interview. That’s usually not a good sign. Even if I do get an offer, it may be too late to save our home.

I collect $275/week in unemployment. I have about six weeks left before that runs out too.

I'm not asking for a handout, I'm asking for a bridge. The funds raised will go directly toward getting caught up on rent so my son and I don't lose our home while I continue to fight for stable employment. Any amount helps. Sharing this helps just as much.

I've survived things most people can't imagine. I'll survive this too. I just need a little help getting to the other side.

Full story here: https://www.madbatterbakeryandbrews.com/post/welcome-to-the-pity-party