I and my service dog are homeless, we’re out of funds and did it on our own as long as we could. We can use every penny you’re able to give, but please don’t feel obligated- I know times are tough for everyone!

My name is Kai (Pronounced “K”), I’m 26, and Arlen is my 6.5 year old service dog for CPTSD (Complex PTSD), Mobility, and Medical Alert. We’ve been through a lot in our life together- so many life changes, adventures and nightmares, discouragement and so much hope.

In our time together my physical condition has progressed from running and biking to a walker, then forearm crutches, and now the freedom of an ultralight wheelchair. Arlen has adapted to my changing needs and we’ve grown together in so many ways.

At the beginning of the year I made a step to leave an abusive situation. For years I tried to leave but due to my disabilities wasn’t able to financially, and I was impeded in every way I tried to progress.

I did the only thing I could when staying longer wasn’t an option. I ended up homeless, slept at a friend’s for a few months, sold my car for funds and had to go to the homeless shelter after spending 28 days at a CPTSD recovery center. We’ve now been at the shelter for 83 days and after 90 days I lose my residency spot (assigned bed) and have to carry around everything I own again.

I’m in a good place mentally, Arlen is happy, but we are out of money, and have no other possessions left to sell. I’ve debated doing a gofundme for the past 7 years and have always decided to continue to figure it out on my own. This time I know it’s time… I can’t do it alone.

We need funds for bus/train fares, medical appointments and bills, medication, certain food items, basic needs for Arlen and I, and last minute emergency funds.

I’m working on trying to find a temporary job I’d be capable of, or start holding some dog training classes. My plan is to start my full training business after finding some kind of home and taking an optional certification course to improve my skills and gain more credibility.

The dream is so close. We’re here, we’re doing it, we’re trying our best! But meeting our everyday basic needs takes up most of our energy and focus here.

It’s almost like homelessness is designed to keep you homeless.

I’ve had continued medical appointments and costs of surviving, so my low funds turned to almost no funds quickly in these months as I’ve worked towards getting out of here.

So this is where some of you have asked if you can help. I know money is tight for *everyone* right now. And I thank you just the same whether you’re able to give a donation, a thought in your mind, a like or a share.

If you have the ability to donate, I’d like to let you know what you’d be giving towards. I will use the first money for continued ability to cover basic needs, bus/train fares (Bus $2.50 1-way, $5 day pass, train $15 day pass 1-4 people) , and apartment application fees ($15-$30 each). If there is extra, I would get work clothing and supplies, and pay my monthly storage unit bill ($94, because of late fees, will lose at the end of the month if I don’t make the payment.) and monthly credit card bill (Only used it to build credit until recently, $25 monthly payment.) I would get more wheelchair gloves (leather ones are lasting me ~2-3 weeks before ripping, my hands get dirty and injured quickly, and I can’t propel myself as well without them.) I would also get my Apple Music subscription back so I can listen to music while I’m traveling, and for grounding and recalibrating my mind. Arlen enjoys listening to music too when I put an earbud in his ear on the bus. ($10 per month).

If there ends up being extra, it would go towards furthering my dog training education and starting my full business. Every penny will be treated carefully. And I will pay it forward every time I can.

Thank you so much for everything all of you have ever done for me, for following us and your thoughts and encouragement in our lives. We love you all!❤️

- Forever grateful for your continued support,

Kai and Arlen