For the past 20 years, I have dedicated my life to helping others with their housing needs—whether it was preventing foreclosures, assisting with evictions, or helping families find a safe place to live. I have always done this work for very little compensation, simply because I believe everyone deserves a safe and stable home. Now, my own family and I are facing a crisis in our home, and I am reaching out for help.

Recently, we discovered a major blockage in the main sewer drain line in our house. This has made it impossible for us to use any water in our sinks, showers, or toilets, because every time we do, sewage water backs up into our basement. The situation has left us unable to meet even our most basic needs, and the mess in the basement has damaged some of our belongings, including clothes that were waiting to be washed.

We need funds to either rent a powered drain auger or hire a plumber to clear the blockage, and to rent equipment like a shop vac, drying fan, and dehumidifier to clean and dry the basement. Some of the funds will also go toward replacing the clothing that was ruined. I know this is a difficult time for many people, especially during the holiday season, but any donation—even a dollar—will help my family fix this mess and get back on our feet. I am extremely grateful to anyone who can support us and help us through this crisis.