My name is Wendy Caster. Demetria (Dede) Mason and I have been pen pals for a couple of years. Over that time, I’ve seen that Dede is smart, hard-working, loving, and talented.

After serving a sentence for robbery, Dede recently began work release, living in a group home and working at Denny’s, while continuing to take classes toward her BA. She made the most of her time in prison, taking every opportunity to improve and learn. She kept her eyes on the prize, despite having to work for 20 cents an hour; despite getting covid due to a complete lack of protection at the prison; and most importantly, despite rarely getting to be in contact with her son.

Somehow, Dede has managed to save a bit of money, even though much of the money she makes at Denny’s is taken by the work release program. But as you all know, it takes way more than a “bit of money” to get an apartment. Also, Dede will not just be supporting herself. Her significant other is recovering from an injury, and cannot currently contribute a full share of their living expenses. Plus Dede hopes to have her son and niece move in with them at some point. Dede says that they will be able to swing the monthly rent, which (even for a small apartment in a small city in Florida) will be well over $2,500. (!!!!!!!)

But here’s the thing: coming up with the thousands of dollars necessary to get the apartment—not to mention furniture, kitchenware, clothing, etc—is an impossible goal with the limitations of work release. And Dede can’t finish with work release until she has a place to live. Please help Dede get that place.

When I told Dede I was going to set up this GoFundMe, she wrote, “I really don’t know how people will react to helping an ex convict.” I wrote back, “I guess we’ll find out.”

Dede did the crime; she did the time. Now all she wants is to work hard, get her degree, and take care of the people she loves. And you can help. I really hope you do.

Dede’s Statement: I want to thank all who donate! I made a horrible mistake, which I regret and pay for everyday. I hope all the time that everyone will pray before they make choices, since bad choices cause such severe loss for so many people. But I am more than my charge; I’m a mother, daughter, aunt, and wife. I want to take care of the ones I love, and I want to help other people not make the mistakes I made. Thank you for giving me a chance!