Hi everyone,

I never imagined I’d have to write something like this, but I’m reaching out today because I’m in a really difficult and urgent situation.

I’m currently enrolled in college and working toward a degree that means everything to me. I’ve fought hard to get here — through long nights, personal sacrifices, and countless challenges, believing that with enough effort, I could make this dream work.

But now, my education is at risk of slipping away.

Due to delays with my college’s financial aid office, my aid package — including my scholarships and grants — is still under review. What makes this even more painful is that my college has told me they won’t apply or release any of the aid until I pay my tuition down payment upfront.

In other words, they want me to come up with thousands of dollars before they’ll even process the money I’ve already been awarded.

It’s backwards. It’s heartbreaking. And it’s financially impossible for me.

I’ve done everything right: I filled out the FAFSA on time, submitted every form, followed every step — but bureaucracy doesn’t wait, and neither does the payment deadline. If I can’t pay what they’re asking, I will be dropped from classes I’ve worked so hard to register for, and this semester — maybe even my entire college journey — could be over before it truly begins.

That’s why I’m asking for help.

If you’re able to donate anything — even just a few dollars — it would mean the world to me. Every bit helps bring me closer to staying in school and continuing to build the life I’ve been working toward for so long. And if you can’t donate, just sharing this message would mean everything.

This isn’t easy to ask. But I believe in the power of community, and I believe that when we help each other, we all rise. Thank you so much for reading and for caring.

With gratitude,

O’maya “Mckenzie” Pitts