HELP MY CAT AND I AVOID HOMELESSNESS!

Sigh and I are facing homelessness. Here's what happened.

Seven years ago, I became an unofficial caregiver to an elderly widower (we'll call him Sam); I did the shopping, cooking, some housework, drove him to medical appointments, etc. Despite my medical issues which keep me from standing for more than a few minutes at a time and routinely includes considerable back pain, I managed well. With Sam's family in other states, I became a friend and companion. We got along well.

I had room and board but didn't receive direct payment for my efforts. For the first several years I had an online job as a subcontractor as a film script consultant. Then CA prop 22 struck; designed to give Uber and Lyft drivers benefits, it affects most subcontractors in CA. I and many others were laid off by companies that didn't want to set the precedent of providing benefits.

Sam encouraged me to stay on; his eyesight began to fail, and his balance become increasingly unsteady. When my cat Sigh was diagnosed with cancer, Sam generously covered the hospital bills and some of the monthly medications.

Recently Sam's health took a serious turn and his family is moving him out of state. His house is being sold and I have to be out by end of February. My medical issues keep me from working at a conventional job. County, state and federal aid programs have waiting lists years-long. Staying with Sam as long as I have was the right move, but it has made it hard for me to care for Sigh and myself.

The challenge is moving out of state with very limited resources. In 2 months I can begin to pay my way. I estimate $8000 for moving costs, first and last, utilities, and to cover the first month or so expenses (including Sigh's meds and my own). We have very little time if this is to work. I say we: under no circumstances will I give up Sigh; she's family.

I know I'm not the only person with difficulties; there are those in worse situations, so why help me? In return for your generosity, once secure, I pledge to “pay it forward”, and help others meet their crises. In helping Sigh and I, you'll be helping others as well.

We thank you for your consideration.