My family and I recently moved to Jacksonville, Florida, with everything lined up for a fresh start. We had an apartment ready, but things quickly unraveled when the complex switched our unit twice, each time saying the previous one wasn’t ready or up to code. Trusting their recommendations, we continued with the process, only to find the third unit in a completely unlivable state—trashed and with mold in several places. We managed to get out of the lease, but the complex is withholding our deposit, fees, and rent for several weeks. Instead of moving into our new home, we’ve been forced to stay in hotels and an Airbnb, spending a significant amount on temporary housing. For now, we are essentially homeless, waiting two more weeks before we can move into our next home due to property regulations.

The hardest part is that my wife’s mom and a family friend are here with us. Our friend wanted to bless us by helping with the move, but now they’re stuck because all our belongings are in his trailer. This situation is holding up their lives and costing them extra money, too. Any blessings received will help us cover the costs of temporary housing, a local storage unit to keep our items safe (so our friend and mother-in-law can go home), a truck rental once we can move into our new home, groceries, and any other unexpected expenses as a result of our home displacement.

Your consideration alone means the world to us, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Even a small gesture can buy us a meal, but please remember your prayers can move mountains. We thank God for you and pray blessings for you and your family. I never realized just how easy it is to become homeless, this day and age. Even with a steady job, a single turn of events can trigger a catastrophic setback. This has been a humbling experience and my heart goes out to others in need.