My name is Emily Vogt and my husband William (a U.S. Army veteran who served 2 tours of duty in Afghanistan) and I have a 13-year-old son with autism who requires constant supervision.

Our family is currently in a desperate financial situation because William just lost his job due to the downsizing of a military contract.

William and I do not have any savings available because I am just now re-entering the workforce after a lengthy period of unemployment. Further, since the training for my new job won't be starting until the middle of May, I won't be receiving my first full paycheck until June 1st.

William and I are absolutely sick over this turn of events. In the span of 24 hours, we have gone from celebrating the prospect of 2 incomes to the knowledge that we won't have enough money to pay for our rent, food, and utilities.

While William and I are going to be pursuing other avenues to resolve this crisis, none of them are going to be available in time for us to maintain our financial stability. We are therefore hoping that the generosity of others will help see us - and our son - through.

Thank you from a grateful military spouse.