Setting aside pride and asking for help

Hi, I'm Mandy (or Amanda, I go by both),

First, thank you for taking the time to come and read this. Second, please know that I do not do this lightly, however, I’ve come to the point that I must set aside my pride and ask for assistance. As some of you may know, the job I worked at for almost 18 years was eliminated in 2020. My department was restructured, and I was in a period of transition regarding my job responsibilities, due to being moved into the department after a buyout. Believe it or not, at almost 18 years, I also did not have seniority, coming far behind many on my team, so all those factors resulted in me/my position no longer fitting the new vision for my team.

I immediately embarked on finding a new position, but as it was the middle of the Covid pandemic, that was a difficult task, as you can imagine! In the intervening years, I’ve had multiple health setbacks, resulting in three hospitalizations. I’ve never stopped my job hunt, but in-office work is no longer an option for me, so I am limited to searching for remote positions. Not difficult to find in my industry – healthcare data – but they are highly sought after, and the competition is fierce.

I have exhausted the severance package I was provided, along with the savings I had accumulated. Last year I even sold my vehicle. Anything to handle this on my own. My dad helped as needed, but as you are aware, he passed away suddenly in November 2023, leaving no will, and his estate is still in probate.

The immediate issue is that I am being threatened with eviction. I am behind on March’s rent and now April is due. I’ve had utilities cut off but with help have gotten those turned back on, though the threat of future cutoffs looms. Another pressing issue is my cell phone is currently disconnected, so potential employers seeking to reach out cannot get in touch via phone. I currently receive food stamps, but they do not go far and only cover food, they do not cover basics such as dish soap, toilet paper, personal care items, etc. They also do not cover dog food for Finn, who is my primary source of companionship and 100% my mental health savior.

This is absolutely the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I’ve had a job of some variety, from odd jobs around my neighborhood to working with my dad at his quarry as a tween/teen to professional positions, since I was about 8 years old. I am not looking to sit back and collect money; I’m simply trying to get through the next few months while I continue job searching. I’ve set a $10,000 goal with the hopes of catching up on rent and bills, and getting a month or two ahead, to give me a buffer. Every little bit helps though!!

I understand not everyone is able to contribute, times are difficult for all. I ask that if you cannot contribute, that you might consider forwarding the link on to others. Please know how appreciative I am of your time and anything you can do to assist.

My love to all,

Mandy