Hi friends, family, and neighbors!
I’m reaching out with a hopeful update and a request for support. A few weeks ago, I posted about Carlton and Densie, two longtime Hamline Midway elders who were facing eviction—what appeared to be a retaliatory action after they bravely advocated for necessary repairs and safer living conditions in their building.
Some of you may remember this is the same couple we organized around last fall. At that time:
- Carlton had been hit by a car on Snelling Avenue, and they were forced to pawn his mobility scooter just to stay afloat.
- We worked with their legal representation and fellow tenants to hold their landlord accountable and connect them to mutual aid and resources.
Now, we’ve got some good news!
Thanks to support from SMRLS legal aid, county programs, and our HMC Renter Engagement Committee, first month’s rent and a damage deposit have been secured for a new, safer apartment!
But we’re up against a tight move-out timeline—this Thursday, May 1st—and we still need to raise $400 to help cover:
- A U-Haul rental
- Moving supplies
- Recouping cost of numerous rental applicaiton fees
- A small cushion to help them settle into their new space
Can you help? Any small donation—$5, $10, $20—makes a huge difference.
And if you can’t give right now, we’re also looking for a few extra hands to help move on Thursday, May 1st from 11AM–2PM, starting at Hamline Park. We’re hoping to do it all in one trip to make things easier.
Carlton and Densie have lived in their current apartment for nearly a decade. Leaving under pressure like this is never easy—especially when you’ve already endured so much. They’ve shown immense courage, but they can’t do this alone. Your donation helps ensure they move with dignity, safety, and support.
With appreciation and hope,
Justin