When my niece called me late at night, I could hear the fear in her voice. She needed a safe place to go, and my husband and I immediately told her she could come stay with us while we made a plan. We were saving up for my husband’s hip replacement, but when she arrived, we knew helping her was the priority. We even helped her get a U-Haul and move in for her safety. Then, as if things couldn’t get more complicated, our home’s electric wiring and plumbing both failed at once, and our small savings disappeared into urgent repairs.

Now, my niece is facing another deadline. She has until 2/28/26 to get her belongings from Texas, or she’ll lose everything. While she’s willing to let go of some material things, there are personal items she truly needs. The cost of a moving van, gas, and food for the trip is more than we can manage right now. She’s too embarrassed to ask for help herself, so I’m reaching out on her behalf.

She’s staying with us, and we’re providing food and a safe place while she gets back on her feet. Her son, who lives with his dad in Colorado, stays with her during school breaks, so it’s important for her to have her things. Her rent in Texas is due on 3/1/26, and she must be out by then. We live near the Oregon/Idaho border, so it’s quite a drive! Any amount helps, and we are so grateful for any support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts—my hands are shaking with both gratitude and nerves as I write this.