I don’t often ask for help, but today I am—because this is a simple request that can make an enormous difference.

This is my friend Tom Mazzei, who is homeless. Over the past year, I’ve been helping him rebuild his life: creating a resume, setting up LinkedIn, and supporting his job search. Recently, he secured a part-time job at a local UPS Store and is earning about $1,350 per month. It was a meaningful step forward.

(Here's his linkedIn which helped: https://lnkd.in/gRUpc2NS)

Then two things happened—both completely outside his control.

First, the police who had previously advised Tom to set up a small camp near a drainage area (two years ago) returned and forced him to leave. Overnight, he lost the only stability he had.

Second, a recent colonoscopy revealed operable Stage III colon cancer, and tests and scheduling are for this week.

Tom had been carefully saving up to $1,286 toward renting a room in a nearby home. That money is disappearing quickly because, without housing, he is now forced to spend about $120 per night—nearly $3,750 per month—just to stay off the street in a low-end hotel. That is clearly unsustainable.

While the cancer is operable, attempting surgery and recovery without stable housing is simply not realistic. Housing is the difference between recovery and crisis.

Our goal is to raise $25,000. This will stabilize Tom immediately, allow him to secure a permanent room, support him through medical recovery, and help him remain employed as he heals.

If you’re able to help in any way, I am deeply grateful. Sometimes a small act of generosity is all it takes to give someone their footing—and their life—back.

Thank you,

Bob Britz