Help Us Own a Forever Home

Help Us Own a Forever Home

Hi, my name is Casey, and I live in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with my son, Josiah.

A few days ago, I posted a video on TikTok showing Josiah’s reaction to our new apartment after we spent 14 months living in a homeless shelter. I never expected it to go viral but his quiet wonder, his hesitance to explore, and eventually his joy touched the hearts of so many. The love we’ve received since has been nothing short of overwhelming.

In the comments, people began asking how they could help. Some encouraged me to add things I want to our Amazon wishlist and not just things for my son. And while I’ve added a few small items, the truth is, what I really want feels far too big to put on a wishlist: a home of our own.

Our Story

I entered foster care as a teenager and remained there until shortly before I turned 18. Over the years, I’ve faced many setbacks including long periods of housing instability. But I’ve never stopped trying to build a better life for myself and especially for my son.

We moved into our apartment in October 2024 after over a year in a shelter. It has brought us stability, safety, and peace. But we’re still living month to month. I work full-time at a job I love, but with rent, childcare, and daily expenses, saving for a home just isn’t realistic on my income alone.

I also live with Epilepsy, which means I can’t drive. That makes living in the city essential for me to get to work and care for Josiah. But as many of you know, homes in the city are incredibly expensive. Still, my dream is to give my son the one thing I never had which is a permanent place to call home, one we can build memories in and that I can someday pass down to him.

Why I Created This GoFundMe

I never imagined starting a fundraiser like this. Honestly, I almost didn’t. Asking for something so big is scary. But after so many people encouraged me to share my story, I realized it was okay to hope and to ask for help.

If you’re someone who wants to support us, here’s how your donation would be used:

• Paying off existing debt, which is necessary to qualify for a mortgage

• Covering the taxes that come with fundraising

• Accounting for GoFundMe’s fees

• And ultimately, purchasing a small, modest home right here in Lancaster

This is more than just a house. It’s a chance to give my son a foundation I never had. A place we can call ours. A place where he’ll never have to wonder if we’ll have to leave.

Whether you’re able to donate or simply share our story, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Every kind word, every bit of encouragement, and every message has reminded me that we’re not alone. You’ve already helped us more than you know.

With love,

Casey & Josiah