Help Rena Recover from a Student Loan Crisis & Stay Housed

Hi, my name is Rena, and I’m reaching out because I’ve recently found myself in a difficult situation and I’m doing everything I can to stay afloat. I am a 2D artist that has worked in IT previously. In 2018, my health started deteriorating to the point my doctors suggested applying for disability in 2022. I have been living in the state of Washington for a few years, having finally found a bouncing board along with wonderful physicians that have been working with me to address my medical conditions. However, 2025 has been challenging due to a multitude of changes in my life. Hence, I've decided to reach out for help.

Due to a sudden and unexpected default on a portion of my student loans, I’m now facing eventual wage garnishment, potential loss of federal aid, and serious long-term financial consequences. These particular loans (totaling $5,300) slipped through the cracks and I had no knowledge of them until they went into collections. My other loans are under IDR (Income-Driven Repayment) and are in deferment, but because I didn’t have access to information about this smaller student loan, it defaulted just weeks ago, impacting my great credit score, now lowering it by 120 points.

At the same time, I’ve been hit with an urgent and unexpected need to move. I now need to secure new housing, pay for a deposit and moving costs, and stabilize while I continue searching for remote work. I’m currently living in Washington, where I have access to my doctors and care team. Losing that stability, or becoming homeless, would be devastating to my health and long-term well-being.

I've spent the last year applying for disability, which is a long and difficult process that requires you to earn below a certain threshold to qualify. I stopped working under advice from my hand specialist and physical therapist, but had to stop pursuing my disability case after 9 months due to these life changes and the sudden need to move. I’ve now shifted my focus fully to finding work, but I need a bridge to get there. I am working in tandem with my doctors during this time to make sure my health is not too derailed in the meantime.

Here’s what I’m fundraising for:

Total goal: $10,000

Food is thankfully covered by state assistance, and I’m doing all I can on my end to apply for jobs to create a sustainable future for myself. I just need help getting through this sudden, overwhelming chapter of my life. I am safe in my current living situation and have friends who are supporting mentally alongside my wonderful doctors and psychologist.

If you’re able to donate or share this campaign, it would mean the world to me. Every bit of support brings me closer to stability, health, and a chance to move forward.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read. If you have any suggestions on remote jobs, financial tips, or anything else please feel free to reach out on my socials. I am also taking commissions if you'd like to contribute in a different way to this fundraiser. Genuinely, even words of advice help.

Warmly,

Rena

I will be providing monthly updates, as well as proof of funds being submitted to debt collections. All funds initially will go towards this. If I meet the goal of covering my student loan collection, I will be providing updates on my housing situation as often as possible. Funds will likely go towards a deposit to low income housing, rent, utilities, and any job finding agency if they charge fees.