Help LeslieAnn secure Housing

In 2021 I left Amherst, my home of 17 years, to return to Washington, my home before that and the place I intended to retire to. I was welcomed and quickly became part of a vibrant textile community and reconnected with friends from my previous years in WA. I brought with me money from the sale of my home for a down payment and began the search for my new home.

My enthusiasm was quickly squelched by the astronomically high real estate market and a chronic health condition that limited my ability to work full-time and led me to take early retirement in 2022. Not long after that I had a stroke that has left me with a brain injury that limits my vision and means I can no longer drive.

I have adapted (pivoting is my super power!) – I’m living in a trailer outside of Bellingham to save money and have gained access to the paratransit bus to get around, somewhat. But I realize this is not sustainable and I am running through my savings which will continue to dwindle since my social security barely covers my rent.

Here is where hope steps in.

Recently, while visiting friends that live in a small town east of the Cascade Mountains, I discovered that houses sell for almost half what I find around Bellingham. Not only that, I found a house for sale that is perfect for my needs– it’s in the center of town so I can walk (or ride my e-trike!) to all the stores, it’s only a block off the north/south state highway so easy access for friends giving me rides, and it’s a sweet little house with a fabulous big kitchen and a giant fenced backyard for my pups to run around in. I am in love with this place and see it as my retirement home (coincidentally, Cady has settled nearby).

I want to buy this and make it my home, and this is where you come in. Even though I still have enough funds for a 25% down payment, my monthly income will not qualify me for a mortgage so I am asking you to help me buy my home. It’s a big ask and I am asking many, hoping that the power of the community, of my family, of the group, can carry me over the threshold of this dream. It’s pretty scary to ask but it’s also been extremely scary thinking about where I’ll be in 10 years otherwise. I need security and independence so I am asking for your help. I appreciate anything you can contribute.

with love and gratitude,

LeslieAnn