Help Me Reclaim a Sense of Home

Hey friends,

I’m reaching out for help as I prepare to move out of an apartment that has been a constant source of stress and instability. This is the same building where my unit was burglarized shortly after I moved in, and it’s only gotten worse. Over the past five to six months, there have been repeated bedbug outbreaks in multiple units. Each time, I had to get rid of more of my belongings just to stay safe and sane. At this point, I’ve lost nearly everything except a metal kitchen table and a plastic folding table. My couch, loveseat, mattress, all my pillows, a good portion of my clothes—they’re all gone.

To make things harder, the place I had been working at shut down unexpectedly at the start of the year. That was my steady income. Since then, I’ve been doing gig work when I can, but it’s been inconsistent and not enough to cover big expenses like furnishing a new place. The move itself is being facilitated by the amazing folks at Fountain House, and I’m deeply grateful for their support. But they aren’t able to help financially, and that’s where I’m struggling. I have utilities I need to pay off before they’ll transfer my service to the new address.

I’ve found a safer place to live and I’m doing everything I can to make a clean, fresh start. But I’m starting from almost nothing and could really use some help. If you’re able to chip in or share this with someone who might, it would mean more than I can say. I’m trying to rebuild a sense of comfort and stability after years of just trying to get by.

If I’m lucky enough to exceed my immediate goal, one of my stretch goals is to invest in a 3D printer and a UV printer. These tools would give me a way to generate sustainable income through creative work within a few niche communities I’m already part of, communities that currently don’t have a reliable source for the kinds of custom items these printers can produce. Having the ability to offer something unique and needed would not only help me stay afloat but also allow me to build something long-term.

Thanks for taking the time to read this and for any support you can give.

With love,

Aaron