Support Caroline in Her Time of Need

It is not easy to ask for help, but our friend Caroline Steele (Karoline Robbins) needs it.

Caroline's family and financial circumstances have changed significantly, and she needs our help. Caroline and her husband Jeff (a well-known and well-loved figure at EB for many years) separated earlier this year, and shortly thereafter he was diagnosed with ALS. This has been a devastating emotional heartbreak for them all, as well as a crippling financial blow to the family. Immediately the full financial responsibility of the family fell on Caroline’s shoulders.

Most of us know Caroline’s always positive attitude and immense generosity of spirit. For the last few years, you wouldn't know she was rolling into school drop-off after working overnight at a nearby women's facility before heading off to her day job in social services. Even though she's been burning the candle at both ends and in the middle, she's always the first to lend a hand.

Over the years Caroline has supported her friends, the EB community, and those in need in innumerable ways. She has been recognized at school for the countless hours she has volunteered — as a room rep, yearbook help, photographer for school events, hosting parties at her home for alumni and PA events, taking in animals and pets for faculty, administration and friends, collecting supplies for new mothers who can’t afford even the most basic necessities, and starting a backpack drive to help families displaced by the Santa Rosa and Paradise fires. She has been a shoulder to cry on and lent an ear to those who needed someone to listen. Her four children have been raised with the same compassion and drive to help where they can, especially to those in need.

Caroline has a great job in social health care but is a contractor. She's paid an hourly rate with no benefits, and any days or hours she takes off come from her paycheck.

In other words, Caroline has the world on her shoulders, but no one can take that weight. We are asking you to now help out someone who has spent most of her life helping others. We thank you for any contribution you can afford, but encourage you to be inspired by Caroline’s giving nature to be as generous as possible. Funds raised will help with rent, car payments, and household bills for six months.

Please feel free to share this information to those who might also want to help.

Thank you,

Gabrielle Hedlund and Rosie Bell