Hey, I’m Devon Ortiz. I’m 31, disabled, and living on a fixed income from Social Security Survivors benefits, about $1,200 a month.

Earlier this month, my roommate passed away unexpectedly after a short illness. It was sudden, and now I’m responsible for the full rent and utilities on our apartment. The lease runs through October 17, 2025.

I have just enough savings to cover August rent on my own, but it’s going to hurt, and after that, I’ll need help. Their share of the rent and utilities was about $750 to $800 a month. On my income, covering that alone isn’t possible.

I’m honestly terrified of losing my home. I spent a big part of my twenties homeless before moving here in 2019, from the SF Bay Area to Richmond, Virginia, to find some stability. Out here, I have far fewer resources and supports. My biggest lifeline was my roommate, and now he’s gone.

To make things harder, my food stamps were cut off in June, and I’m fighting hard to get them back.

The lease does not allow subletting, so I need to find someone to co-sign and co-lease with me. That takes time, background checks, applications, and paperwork. My lease renewal notice comes mid-August, and after that, I’ll have a few weeks to sort this out.

Right now, I’m asking for help to cover rent and utilities from September until the lease ends or until I find a new roommate. This support will give me breathing room and keep me from losing my home.

I live with two cats who mean a lot to me. Keeping a stable home for all of us is my priority.

The funds will go directly toward rent and utilities from September through October 17. This will give me time to find a new roommate to share the lease since subletting isn’t allowed.

If you can help, even a little, or share this, it means more than I can say.

Thank you for reading.

- Devon Ortiz