I am raising funds to get back into housing after living in my car since August 10th.

I have an apartment lined up, and am moving in on November 1st. First month's rent is $398.50, plus the security deposit for another $398.50. I will need to put down the security deposit once I sign the lease, and the first month's rent by November 1st. I have already passed reference checks and income verification.

My plan was to sell my motorcycle to cover most of these costs, but it appears to have been stolen before I was able to get it running and in storage. My car, while still running, needs about $700 in repairs to replace the break pads and rotors, and I have not been able to afford to renew the registration either.

I currently have about $100 in my bank. I am working as much as I am able, but only making about $1,000/month, and have made under $17,000/year, every year, since 2019 - with several of those years making less than $7,000. Although I already had a phone interview for SSI and SSDI and sent back my questionnaire to Michigan's Disability Determination Services, I have no clue when, or even if I will be able to get any benefits.

Living out of my car has incurred additional expenses. I am not able to cook cheap nutritious meals for myself, or get regular sleep. I spend extra money on laundry, gas, a storage unit, and had my food stamps reduced from $230 to $65 because I no longer pay rent or utilities. I don't exactly have the capacity to purchase a cooler, keep it stocked on ice, and then figure out how to cook, prepare, and save meals in my overcrowded honda accord. I have been putting off buying shaving supplies, because in addition to not having a good spot to shave, they are expensive to purchase.

I know that many of us are already struggling financially, and that you might not have the desire or ability to donate any money. If you are able and willing to donate, even a dollar or two, it would mean the world to me and be incredibly helpful towards my securing stable, affordable housing. If you feel like sharing this fundraiser, that would likewise be quite helpful.

Thank you for reading, from the bottom of my heart.

Morgan Kothman