I never imagined I would be in this position, but I am reaching out for help after a devastating experience. I was in the process of moving and had loaded my vehicle with everything I had collected over the years—items that held deep meaning to me, many from relatives who have passed away. While I was moving, just two blocks from the police station in Berkeley, I was held up at gunpoint, assaulted, and my car was stolen with everything inside. After the assault, I was left with nothing.

Among the things taken were my son’s cap and gown and the brand new suit I bought him from Nordstrom as a graduation present. He never even got to wear it, and now it’s gone. Every purse I owned, my wallet, all my credit cards, makeup, clothes, shoes, designer shoes, and perfume—everything I worked hard for—are gone. I don’t even have a toothbrush or shampoo. I made a police report, but nothing has surfaced. My son’s graduation is in two days, and I have nothing to wear, nor can I replace his suit in time. As a single mother, I’ve worked two jobs to give my son a good life, and I’ve never received child support. My son has a learning disability and has worked so hard to graduate with A’s and B’s. He should be celebrating, not worrying about me and our troubles.

I am crushed and at a loss for words. I can’t go to work because I have no transportation, and if I don’t work, I can’t get paid. Your support will help me replace essentials, get back on my feet, and allow us to attend my son’s graduation with dignity. Thank you for helping me and my son start rebuilding at this time of need. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us as we try to recover from this loss.