Henrietta's Home Fundraiser

From Lori DeMars: I am a long-time fan and friend of our beloved Henrietta. She has tried so hard for the past few years to find work, but as she says, "It ain't easy being 80!" I would like to help her keep her home and raise money to get her through the next couple of months until her efforts hopefully begin to pay off. Below is the situation in her own words.

From Henrietta: For quite a while, certain friends have wanted to help me set up a “GoFundMe” account. I always declined because I felt my needs weren’t as dire as those I’ve seen when folks needed help after a fire, during a major illness, etc. Now I’m feeling desperate enough to ask.

Like an old-fashioned “Barn Raising,” I need your help. As most of you know, early in the COVID epidemic, without warning, I lost my job of 40 years. I admit I didn't plan well. I never imagined trying to live on Social Security.

Even after dropping from a decent income down to below Federal poverty level, I have somehow managed to juggle my monthly expenses without late fees or deferments. Now I’m broke. (In spirit, too) I have exhausted my savings, run out of things to sell, and grown ashamed to accept the continued goodwill of friends who have helped along the way. (These are not wealthy people. My most generous, caring friends are retired civil employees on pensions and others of moderate income.)

Last month I had a scare about my home. Everyone knows how much I love my tiny home. There are many days when my home is my only joy in life. Also my mortgage is cheaper than renting elsewhere.

I would be so grateful if you could help me with even the smallest amount to get me through the next couple of months so I can focus on getting work and other income projects. The stress is taking a toll on me emotionally and mentally.

My social security barely covers my home expenses. There is nothing left for much-needed dental work, medical co-payments (I recently had to stop going to physical therapy on my broken shoulder), Doggie costs (they are old like me!), local transportation and many minor expenses most folks take for granted.

I receive $23 monthly for groceries via SNAP/food stamps. Aetna now helps with $30 a month for groceries. I wear the same two shoes daily. One is literally coming apart. My bedroom door to the outside won't close and is coming away from the frame.

My “job” these days is looking for a job. Unfortunately, as the saying goes, “It takes money to make money.” I have paid for buses and trains to nearby places looking for work. In the old days I looked for music jobs carrying a resume and packet of photos and press stories, etc. Now applying for “gigs” requires an EPK (I had to look it up!), videos, websites, etc. I no longer have the money to pay young people to help me with all these technical things.

I want to print flyers regarding private parties, piano lessons and such. Musicians need all kinds of equipment. I want to print and sell my fledgling ‘self-help’ booklets (unrelated to music). And so on….Everything costs money which I don’t have.

I know you probably have questions, and I welcome hearing from you via Lori's 'contact.' I would also welcome any kind of cost-saving advice and resources and “in kind” help with things such as basic computer technology (which has run off and left me!). Even getting an ID/Drivers License these days requires some knowledge of technology. Like many older folks, I could use help with simple household chores and repairs, occasional rides for groceries, etc. I usually only go as far as I can walk.

Thank you for caring,~Henrietta