May 11 finale:

I'm done. Thanks so very, very much for the generosity of so many people! I will be in your debt forever.

May 5th update:

I'm not making this an active campaign at this point, but I did add another $150 in goals just in case somebody happens upon it. I can't possibly thank everyone enough for their contributions. We're in decent shape at this point, although there will be challenges ahead. I appreciate each and every dollar that was donated. Bless all of you.

APRIL 28 UPDATE:

IM STILL TRYING TO RAISE $100 BEFORE MY RENT BECOMES DUE. THIS IS MY FINAL APPEAL PLEASE, IF THERE'S ANY WAY YOU CAN HELP, ANY AMOUNT WOULD BE SO SINCERELY APPRECIATED. LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!

Help Jim Overcome a Critical Housing and Food Emergency

Well, I never would have predicted in my lowest days that I, my partner, and dog Snoop might be subject to eviction, but here I am. And here I am asking, for the very first time, for one-time, and ONLY one-time, help. I hope, after you read my plea, that you might be moved to consider donating whatever is comfortable for you.

Hello, my name is Jim, and I’m reaching out to kind-hearted souls for assistance during a challenging time. I’m raising $500 to cover my rent and food expenses next month. Every single dollar will go directly toward ensuring I can stay in my home and have enough to eat. (The first $300 will go to rent, and the remainder to food, until I can get my federal disability benefit later next month.) I've made the amount requested as small as possible because I know how much need is out there. So many people need help!!!

A few years ago, I was forced into early retirement, nearly 10 years ahead of schedule, due to Parkinson’s Disease. Since then, I’ve faced mounting challenges, including spending nearly all of my inheritance to move into a 55+ retirement community. Now, with no savings left and limited mobility, I rely solely on Social Security Disability benefits, which barely cover my basic needs. I can no longer work, making it even more difficult to bridge these financial gaps.

I know it's really difficult for most people who donate. I get it! In fact, I will be overjoyed if I don't get a penny more than what's already been raised! People are truly exceptional, and I feel so much gratitude already.

I believe in the rightness of the universe—that, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” I also believe in the gentle goodness of people, and I’ve seen it firsthand throughout my life. As a former public relations director for three major U.S. airlines, I oversaw tens of millions of dollars in charitable contributions, including nearly $10,000 in just one year from my own pocket. Giving back has always been a cornerstone of my professional and personal life.

I’m a longtime member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and previously sang in the choir at National City Christian Church in Washington, D.C., where we ran charitable programs for those in need. Now, I find myself on the other side, humbly asking for help.

Your support, no matter how small, would mean the world to me. It would not only help me meet my immediate needs but also remind me of the kindness and compassion that still exist in the world. Thank you for considering my request, and may you be blessed for your generosity. I and my dog Snoop (shown in the photo) will help keep me from being forced onto the streets.