My name is Lisa, and I am the primary caregiver for my 87-year-old mother, who is living with dementia. She is legally blind and deaf, and requires round-the-clock supervision and support. I receive a stipend to care for her, which is non-taxable, but I did not realize it needed to be reported as income to DSS Snap. Because of this, there was an overpayment and I was arrested and charged with first degree larceny. This is the first time I have ever been in legal trouble, and the experience has been overwhelming and frightening.

On top of this, I am currently undergoing treatment for stage four breast cancer. Balancing my own health challenges with the demands of caring for my mom has been incredibly hard, both emotionally and financially. The legal situation has added a tremendous amount of stress to our lives, and I am struggling to keep up with everything on my own.

I am raising funds to cover legal fees so I can have the support I need to fight these charges and hopefully stay out of prison. Having legal representation would give me a chance to explain my situation and continue caring for my mom, who depends on me for everything. Any help would mean the world to us and would allow me to focus on my health and my mom’s well-being during this difficult time.