My name is Summer, and I’ve always tried to handle life’s challenges on my own. But after breaking my hip just before Christmas, I’ve found myself in a situation I never expected. I live in a low-income neighborhood where the city hasn’t kept up with repairs or street lighting. One evening, while walking to the store, I stepped into a giant crack in the sidewalk and lost my balance. The lack of street lights made it impossible to see the danger, and I ended up needing surgery just two days before Christmas.

Since then, I’ve been out of work for months, and it’s been incredibly hard to keep up with basic bills like rent and utilities. I’ve always been independent, but this injury has put me so far behind that I’m struggling just to survive. I’m reaching out for help because I want to keep my home and get back on my feet until I can return to work.

I’ve never done anything like this before, and asking for help is a big stretch for me. But any support you can give would mean the world. Your kindness will help me get through this tough time and back to supporting myself. Thank you for reading and for any help you can offer.