Hi, my name is Jennifer Castle. I’m a mother and caregiver. My daughter is three years old, and my loving partner is autistic. I’ve been out of work since July 2023 due to a workplace injury, and I’ve been navigating the workers’ compensation system ever since.

The payments I receive are irregular and a fraction of what I used to earn—not nearly enough to cover rent, utilities, or groceries. My last payment was on October 2nd. Since then, we’ve had a hearing, and although the decision was filed on October 17th, I’ve been told I may not receive another deposit until the end of this week or next. That’s nearly a month without income. This is not uncommon.

Our fridge is nearly empty. I receive SNAP and WIC, but with food prices so high, it barely stretches. I’ve applied for HEAP, but the program is delayed statewide due to federal funding issues.

Since the injury, I have multiple negative accounts, past-due bills piling up, and I feel so defeated. I’ve always been the one to help others, to advocate, to create magic and meaning for my community. But right now, I need help.

If you’re able to donate, share, or send a kind word, it would mean the world to us. Every dollar helps us stay warm, fed, and hopeful. Thank you for seeing us, believing in us, and helping us hold on.

With gratitude and love,

Jennifer Castle