Hello, I am an Iron Range-based community connector and am reaching out to everyone to help our fellow community members in a time of desperate need. I have several folks that are in need but do not want to ask for help outright. I am happy to accept donations on their behalf and deliver the funds directly to them for their needs. I have no intention of using them for myself. While they wish to remain anonymous, I would like to ask folks to consider donating to help out in a true mutual aid fashion.

When people are desperate, they can take desperate measures to provide for themselves and their families. Our systems are built in a way that not all in need are able to receive public assistance. My efforts here are to provide families with help regardless of status. We are just working together to give what we can to help keep our community members housed, warm, bathed, and fed.

I have worked for local non-profits, building artistic resources. I work currently as a freelance artist and with the area's film industry. Some folks are worried about donating to someone they don't know and are unsure of what they will do with the money, but we have to stop questioning those in need and question why we live where so many people are unable to afford survival.

In this very difficult time, we have community members that are unable to work and so they are unable to pay their bills and are choosing between groceries and heat. Rather than concern ourselves with the who and what, please consider that your contribution will help to keep the rent paid, their water, heating, and electricity on, and their bellies full over the next few months. We need to help others as much as we possibly can right now. I know that your donations will be very appreciated and paid forward when things turn around.

Those of us with the privilege to collect and connect need to step up and reach out more now than ever. If we need public recognition or direct thanks in order to provide charity, then we are not living a true life of giving back. I am happy to provide updates on the specifics while keeping the beneficiaries' personal information private. I am very appreciative of you considering donating through this fundraiser.