Hi, my name is Yvette! I’m a Black queer woman doing everything I can to rebuild my life after a long and painful stretch of homelessness — and I’m asking for your help so I can finally bring my two cats, Zola and Mustache, home under one roof.

For the past year and eight months, I’ve been struggling to find stability after losing my job. Unemployment ran out after six months, and I couldn’t afford to keep my apartment. I had to let it go in April 2025. Since then, I’ve been couch-hopping, trying to stay hopeful, and applying for every job I could find.

I made it to the final interview round 35 different times. Each time, I gave it my all — and each time, the job went to someone else. It’s clear how hard it can still be for a Black woman to get a fair shot, even with experience and determination.

Finally, in October, I landed a job at a nonprofit. I’m so grateful to be working again — but my pay is lower than before, and rent in the Bay Area keeps rising. Right now, I’m staying in a hotel with my cat Zola (her foster couldn’t keep her anymore), while Mustache is still with another foster. I need to find permanent housing this week before I lose my temporary shelter.

I was supposed to receive a grant for my move-in costs, but it’s been delayed indefinitely. That’s why I’m asking for help from my community and anyone who believes in second chances.

I’m trying to raise $4,500 to cover:

-First month’s rent and deposit

-Pet fees for Zola and Mustache

-Basic moving help (I’m disabled and physically can’t move furniture or boxes alone)

Every dollar truly makes a difference. If 100 people gave $45, I could move into a home — a real home — this month.

If you can’t donate, please share this with your friends or on social media. Your share could be the reason my little family makes it through this moment.

Thank you for reading and for caring. I’m so ready to start over — safely, with my two cats by my side.

With gratitude,

Yvette, Zola & Mustache <3