Help Melanie Keep Her Home and Pets Safe

I am a retired 25-yr dog rescuer, desperately trying to hang onto my home for myself and my three remaining rescue dogs, two cats and five hens. At 67 years of age, and with severe spinal stenosis that prevents me from working outside the home, I've needed to ask for help a few times. I've been turned down for many remote jobs. I am certain it's because of my age. I know the need is great for many folks right now. I'm sorry about the situation.

Our current situation is this: We have 10 days to raise a minimum of $400 to keep our electricity on. We need to hang on here by the skin of our teeth for another nine months, after which my monthly income will increase by $200. We should be okay then.

But now, I am begging anyone who can afford to help, please help us. This is the worst year of my life: Our HVAC had to be replaced and I still owe $7000 on it. This was unanticipated. We are current at this time on our house payment and the HVAC loan, but having a hard time paying utilities. Friends and former adopters have donated dog and cat food, and we're good in that respect for a few months. I get $200/month from my Medicare plan for groceries which keeps me fed. Family members who could have helped are all gone now.

I am pasting a copy of the notice/bill here:

Subject to Disconnection

Your service is subject to disconnection. Please pay your past due amount in full to avoid disconnection

Melanie O <[email redacted]>

2:40 PM (5 hours ago)

to me

Ameren: DISCONNECT NOTICE

Acct 2506162570

2 GARNETTE DR

Min Due: $393.71 by 08/20/2025

Total Bal: $393.71

Pay now: Ameren.com

Payment Amount: $568.19 due

568.19

Payment Date: Due 09/02/2025

08/11/2025

Future dated payments are not available for Quick Pay.

I'll be praying for help, and putting together a yard sale at the same time. But I don't own enough stuff to raise this amount, hence the fundraiser.