My name is Anthony Pulero( Tony ), and asking for help is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. But life has backed me into a corner, and I’m reaching out to family, friends, and anyone with a kind heart who can help me stay afloat.

In 2006, I had to move from the Jersey Shore to Bethlehem, PA, after developing serious back and neck issues that left me unable to work. The move allowed me to be close to my mother, who was battling chronic COPD and needed 24/7 care. In 2009, I found an apartment at Oak Hollow where she and I could live together. It was perfect for us, and I was grateful to be able to care for her during her final years. She lived 7–8 more happy years before passing, and those memories mean everything to me.

During that time, my neighbors became like family. We looked out for each other, shared meals, and cheered on the Eagles together every Sunday. I'm also a Miami fan. My neighbor Georgia, who passed recently at 88, was the heart of our floor. She was the biggest Eagle fan I know. Those connections helped me through some of the hardest moments of my life.

But everything changed in 2023 when our apartment complex was sold to an out‑of‑state corporation. My rent, which had been $964, was raised by more than $700 a month in just under three years. On top of that, they added new charges for trash, water, sewage, and even a mandatory $70 internet fee — whether we use it or not. Pennsylvania has no rent control, and there’s no protection for tenants like me.

With my only income being Social Security and my sister also struggling with new expenses of her own, these increases hit us hard. I’ve had to rely on credit cards at times just to get by, and the high interest has pushed me into serious debt. I’ve tried every avenue for help — state offices, housing programs, elected officials — but doors keep closing.

I’ve always worked hard, making cuts wherever possible, but this situation has overwhelmed me. If I can get a little help, I have a real chance to stabilize my life and eventually move somewhere affordable. I’m even willing to pay back donations over time once I’m back on my feet.

I don’t like asking for help, but right now, I truly need it. Any amount — big or small — would lift a huge weight off my shoulders and help me breathe again. Even sharing this fundraiser would mean the world to me.

Thank you for reading my story, for caring, and for helping me fight through this. God bless you. https://gofund.me/d547a1aa1