My name is Jef, and I am reaching out because I am currently homeless. I had spent the last several years being my mom’s full-time caregiver and during that time I did not have an income. When she died just over a year ago, I found myself without a place to live and almost no inheritance. Her house was sold for just barely what she owed to the bank for it.

I have mental health issues that are more serious than I’ve let people realize and this situation has been a real struggle for me. Some friends helped me for a few months, but things with them did not end well, and for the past several months I have been homeless.

I am currently staying in a temporary shelter that is keeping my body safe, but absolutely endangering my mental health. I do not blame the shelter for my problems, it is just not a mentally safe place for me personally. I need at least some time during the day to be alone as I cannot calm down around strangers. I suffer from hypersensitivity and every single sound, smell, and even movement catches my attention like I was sitting front row at an IMAX theater. Also, for someone with my history of abuse and neglect being constantly surrounded by strangers feels like being the one cat being kept in a dog kennel. I’m sure most of the dogs are friendly, but I have nowhere to hide when I get overwhelmed by all the constant noise and activity.

Right now, I am in urgent need of support for basic necessities and finding somewhere better to stay as I work toward independence. The funds I raise here will go directly toward securing safe housing, paying for my prescriptions, and covering rides to appointments and responsibilities. Every bit of help brings me closer to stability and the chance to rebuild my life.

I know that what I am doing is the modern version of panhandling, but I honestly need help, and I am hoping that your generosity will get me that much closer to a productive and healthy self-sufficiency again. I am truly grateful for however much or little you give. Your kindness and charity mean more to me than words can express.