Hi, my name is Shelby, and I’m a mother of three—my oldest is 16, and my youngest two are just 2 and 1 years old. I’ve always tried to do everything I can to keep my family afloat, but right now, I’m truly overwhelmed and reaching out for help during the holidays.

Over the past few months, my life has turned upside down. I was hospitalized with a pocket of fluid on my spine, and soon after, I needed thyroid surgery. These health issues forced me out of work for weeks, and even now, I’m still recovering while working from home to provide for my family. Despite my best efforts, the bills and essentials have piled up, and it’s been impossible to catch up. My husband has been searching for work every day, but so far, no luck.

We’re behind on every major bill, and I’m doing everything I can to keep the lights on, water running, and a roof over our heads. My children depend on me for everything—diapers, wipes, food—and it all adds up so quickly. I’m not asking for anything extra, just the basics to keep my family safe and together.

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write, but I’m a mother asking for help. If you can donate anything, even a small amount, it will help us keep going and give us a chance to breathe. If you can’t donate, sharing our story means the world to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading and for any support you can give.