Those of you who know me know I do not like asking for help, but I have reached that point and I am learning to lean on community while hoping for a miracle. I am in need of support and financial assistance right now.

I am a single mama of a type 1 diabetic teen who I would do anything for. Medications are not cheap, gas to get to his Dr. appointments, nor are the supplies that I need to obtain to take the best care of him. His birthday is December 29th (right after Christmas) and I was hoping to have found work by now so I could spoil him as he has had a rough year since diagnosis in June and so deserves a great birthday.

Unfortunately, I can’t even think of gifts, or any “extras” as it has taken all my resources just to focus on survival at the moment.

I have been looking for work for months since my nonprofit shut down and have been unable to find another job yet. It’s discouraging and frustrating, but I am still applying for multiple jobs a day. My unemployment benefits ended several months ago and I have been barely getting by on savings and random one-off gigs.

We live in Shoreline, WA, and the cost of living is astronomical. I have no safety net or backup plan to fall on. My monthly bills are drowning me, and the stress has been weighing on my spirit. I already don’t have enough for rent this month, electricity bills, phone bill (which also doubles as my son's medical device for his CGM), and on top of all of that, my alternator decided to go out in my car and it currently won’t start. I’ll need to replace that now ASAP to get to interviews, his school, and his doctor appointments.

I know a lot of folks are struggling right now (that’s a big reason why I have not asked anyone for help). I also feel shame and anxiety opening up about my life and can’t help but feel like I am failing as a mother. A dear friend of mine reminded me that everyone needs a little help every now and then and to put my pride aside and put out an ask. We have not because we ask not, right!? So, I ask of you, community, if you got a little extra this month and can help us out during this time until I find work again, it would be greatly appreciated.

I just want to fix my car, and pay my rent and that will be sufficient. Also, if you are hiring or need work done that I could help with, I would love to know about those opportunities. And if you can’t help financially, please share this, say a prayer, manifest some good vibes, anything would be appreciated, and I hope you are blessed double for your trouble.

Thank you for your time and energy reading this.

Thank you donors, family, friends, and community for your gifts in advance.