I’m asking for help because I’ve run out of options.

Days before Thanksgiving, I found out my father was seriously ill and admitted to the hospital. Around the same time, I got sick myself and was unable to work for about two weeks. During that period, my storage unit fell behind and late fees began adding up. By the time I recovered and tried to pay, the balance had already increased. Now I’m currently locked out and have been told the balance will increase again in one week, and if I can’t pay, everything inside will be auctioned.

This storage unit holds everything I own — my work clothes, personal documents, passport, and all of my music equipment. I’m an active musician currently working on an album, and my instruments and gear are inside that unit. Losing it would mean losing not just my belongings, but my ability to continue my music career. Since Thanksgiving, I’ve been wearing the same set of clothes because I don’t have access to the rest of my things.

I’ve been living between the streets and motels when I can afford them, relying on EBT for food and receiving General Relief, which is very limited and not available again until next month. I’ve borrowed what I could from close friends, tried to find work, and even attempted to book performances to raise the money, but with no stable place to stay and no access to my equipment or work clothes, it’s been extremely difficult.

I don’t ask for help lightly. I’m 46 years old and trying to keep my life and career from starting over completely. If I’m able to regain access to this unit, I will immediately remove my belongings so I never end up in this situation again. The storage unit will sell off all my possessions to an unknown auction in 10 days. Any contribution — even a small one — helps. If you can’t donate, sharing this means a lot. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for any support you can give.