My name is Melissa and my cat's name is Jasper. I am 49 and Jasper is 7! I rescued Jasper about three years ago. I worked at a company for about 8 years and due to downsizing they eliminated my role at the end of 2024. Severance ended in March of 2025 and then I was able to receive unemployment benefits but that only covered half of my living expenses. So I cashed out my 401K to supplement my income. Unemployment ran out in October of 2025 and Texas is saying the unemployment rate is not low enough to extend my benefits past the five months they gave me. Now I am existing solely on a credit card and the last of my 401k.
Jasper and I are living in an Extended Stay hotel. I have great credit and rental history and I am trying to avoid ruining that so I moved out of my apartment when the lease was up to avoid an eviction. Texas is a landlord friendly state so I would have had no recourse to stay if I couldn't pay my rent anyways. I currently have roughly $3,000 left between my checking and savings account and I don't qualify for food stamps yet because of that money in my account.
The job search has been very rough. Although I have over 20 years of stable and impressive work history and I have applied to over 180 positions, I have not been able to find work. That has always been something I could count on, having a job. Due to health issues, I have to have a desk job because I can't stand on my feet for extended periods of time. I would happily be waiting tables right now if I could!
My current health insurance is $749 a month, they raised it more than $100 from last year. Due to my health issues, I had to choose a high premium plan to cover my medicines, most importantly my heart medicines that I cannot be without. Staying in a hotel is around $1,500 a month (with pet fees) and I have exhausted my credit card while still leaving room to be able to pay the monthly bill.
Jasper had his annual checkup in November of last year and he is healthy and happy! He is well loved, fed and warm and I prioritize his care. I have paid for his care plan in advance for the rest of the year to make sure he can always see a vet if needed.
I have a family member that is allergic to cats which makes it not possible for me to move in with someone without letting go of Jasper. If I find someone to live with, the last of my money is still decreasing quickly and soon I will be out of funds.
I know that I'm going to get a job, it will happen for me eventually and hopefully soon and I am not giving up! I have been on promising interviews that have roles that are up in the air right now but things are starting to pick back up in the job market and it is only a matter of time before something good happens for me and Jasper.
Until then though, I have almost come to the end of my available funds and have gone through what was supposed to be my retirement. I didn't expect this rough patch to last so long. I am fortunate to have family help me how they can but times are hard for everyone.
Anything that you can give to help, even $5 towards groceries is very much appreciated. Thank you for your time reading this and I hope you are well.