Help a Laid-Off Epidemiologist After 10 Years in Government

After a full decade as an epidemiologist at my local health department, I was unexpectedly laid off during a wave of federal and local budget cuts and policy changes. It was an unfortunate consequence of being in public service at a time when funding is tightening across the country.

This work has meant everything to me. I’ve spent years at this job making sense of the numbers behind community violence, health disparities, and social inequities — and now, ironically, I find myself experiencing instability firsthand.

Jobs in public health (especially the analytical kind I do) are few and far between. It could realistically take 6 to 12 months to find the right opportunity — whether here in Salt Lake or somewhere new.

What Your Support Covers

Immediate Goal: $3,100 — This will help me cover core costs over the next 4 weeks and stabilize during this transition.

• $1,500 – Living expenses support for the 4-week unemployment benefit gap

• $600 – Two months of ACA health insurance premiums

• $600 – Legal fees for employment/PSLF support

• $300 – Groceries and daily essentials

If I’m able to reach this goal, I may expand it slightly to help cover ongoing basic needs and unexpected expenses through the end of the year.

Why I’m Asking for Help

I’ve always done my best to stay afloat and take care of things on my own — working full-time, managing a rental, and rebuilding after past setbacks. But this is one of those rare stretches where a little help could make a huge difference.

And hey, I also want to prove my therapist right about asking for help

If you’re able to contribute or share, I’d be deeply grateful. This support isn’t just about survival — it gives me room to focus on rebuilding instead of scrambling to stay afloat. Thank you for helping me breathe a little easier and move forward with purpose.