My valet trash lady and now my friend has been a constant, friendly presence in my apartment community, picking up my trash five days a week. Rain or shine, she always has her loyal dog by her side, and their bond is something special. One day, I posted a video of her and her dog on TikTok, and it went viral—people everywhere were touched by their story. I even got her dog a matching safety vest so they could work together safely and in style.

Recently, her son reached out to me and shared that she’s been going through a tough time. She’s currently going through a divorce, and to keep her valet trash job, she sold her Jeep and got a truck. Now, she and her dog are living with her son in a one-bedroom apartment, working hard just to get by. Despite everything, she shows up every day with a smile and a kind word for everyone she meets.

I started this fundraiser because I want to help her get back on her feet. The money raised will go toward her living expenses, help her find a place of her own for her and her dog, and hopefully give her some time to enjoy life and her family again. If you’re able to help, please consider donating or sharing this story. The only thing more powerful than hate is love.

All donations will go directly to her in cash, so she can do what she wants with it.