Today, I experienced something I never thought would happen to me. I was scammed out of all my savings by someone pretending to be law enforcement, telling me I had a warrant for my arrest and needed to pay a bond immediately. As a single dad raising two boys on my own for the past 16 years, my first thought was to protect my family. The scammers even went so far as to use real deputy names and spoof the jail’s phone number, making it all seem terrifyingly real. I’ve always worked hard to provide for my kids and care for my elderly mother, and I’ve never had anyone I could count on when things got tough. I’ve been a coach in my town and have always tried to help others, but now I find myself in a position where I need help.

The money I lost was meant for bills, groceries, and saving up for a vehicle for my son, who’s about to get his driver’s license. Now, I’m facing a car note, electricity, insurance, and everyday necessities for my kids, all while making sure my mom is cared for. It’s hard for me to ask for help—I’ve always been the one giving, not receiving—but I’m reaching out because I don’t know what else to do.

Any support, no matter how small, would mean the world to me and my family as we try to get back on our feet. Thank you for reading my story and for any kindness you can share.