I never imagined I’d be in this position, but I’m reaching out for help because I’m desperate for warmth and safety in my own home. My furnace stopped working in mid-November, and I’ve been doing everything I can to get it replaced. After months of saving, I finally managed to buy a new furnace, only to find out I also need a roof jack and vent pipe for installation. I started saving for those parts, plus the cost of installation, but then my electric bill for December arrived and was much higher than usual because I’ve been using space heaters to heat my bedroom, living room, and kitchen. I paid that bill, hoping I could still get the furnace installed before my next electric bill came due.

Just as I thought I was getting back on track, things got worse. On Monday night, my water pipes froze. I spent the night in tears, feeling completely overwhelmed. The next morning, I called plumbers for help, but most didn’t show up or quoted prices I couldn’t afford. I finally found someone through my local community who could help, and paid to have the pipes unfrozen. The following day, a pipe to my toilet burst, and I had to pay again to get it fixed. Now, my little savings are completely gone, and last night my hot water pipes froze again because it’s so cold in my house—just 53 degrees inside.

Getting help now would mean I could stay warm and have running water, making my home safe and secure again. I’m scared to even think about going to work, worried my pipes will burst and cause damage I can’t afford to repair, and I fear losing my home. Any support you can give will help me restore heat and water, and keep my home safe. Thank you for reading my story and considering a donation.