We are Ken and Julie-Ann. We will have been married for 25 years in mid-July. I (Julie-Ann) am a Unitarian Universalist minister and for the last 10 years have worked either as a hospice or hospital chaplain. Ken has worked with special needs children and adults in schools and group homes over the last 30 years.

I, Julie-Ann, lost my job on March 14th. I was hired by a new hospice company immediately with the understanding that they were in the process of being accredited, but it might be a month or two. In the meantime, there would be per diem work. It has been 3 months with limited per diem, and yesterday I was told it could be up to 3 more months before accreditation and a salaried position begins. As of yesterday, I have made it clear I will be job hunting.

I have been applying regularly for unemployment; however, they keep asking for additional information. I really thought these funds would be sufficient to pay urgent bills. So far, I have not received any unemployment. I was approved at one point, but they withdrew it. I honestly have no idea what I have done wrong. I have once again submitted what they requested. I am hoping something will come through soon.

Last Wednesday was Ken's last day at his job. He had been told his position was confirmed for the upcoming school year. Less than a week later, my husband was one of 40 staff in a relatively small school district who lost his job due to federal cuts to school and DEI funds, which is what all special education programs are now considered.

Yesterday, my husband told me that he had been scammed out of the money in our accounts. This was money we had been sent to help repair our plumbing. I had thought this week was the week the person was coming out to finally fix the pipe between the toilet and the septic, but he has not shown up.

I have no room to say anything as earlier this year I fell for a scam where I was helping someone and he was going to pay me back with money from his father. Unfortunately, he is now dead, and his partner has not given me a cent. Between these two situations, we are out $9,000 we desperately need to cover plumbing and property tax payments.

Ken is working with the police, who believe his rapid reporting may allow something to be recovered. I am not as optimistic.

July 1st they will list our property for non-payment of property taxes. We owe $6,000. I feel stupid, gullible, and desperate. I never imagined as two well-educated, hard-working professionals we would find ourselves in such a position. I hate to bring this to those we know. I just don't know what else to do at this point.

We welcome your financial help, advice, prayers, and wisdom. We are grateful for friendship and any help we can get. We are working with a financial advisor to take better control of our finances moving forward.

Gratitude and blessings on you all,

Julie-Ann and Ken

Our gratitude is beyond words. Should we go over the goal we will pay down the electric and medical bills.