My name is K (they/he) and I am a transmasc nonbinary immigrant from Vietnam. I am currently facing a lot of financial instability and a complicated immigration issue with a relatively high risk of being denied the renewal of my green card.

I had initially created a mutual aid request of $1200 for the filing and agent fee for my green card extension paperwork (my green card is expiring this July, yes, in 4 months) and that goal was met, which I am eternally grateful for. However, after speaking with a couple of people and different agents, I learned that the complexity of my case might require a lawyer, who will cost way more ($4,000 including filing fee). Without anyone legally representing me and my case in the interview, I might have to face with not being able to obtain a legal immigration status and that might even lead to deportation. I am hoping to avoid having to go back and live in Vietnam where I'm from for the long run due to my identity as a queer-trans person who holds different political views and personal values with the majority of the people there.

Another thing that's causing a strain on my financial situation is that I was unemployed for a period of 2 months last year, I was freelancing and was out of work before finding a full time job in August. During the period of being unemployed, I used up all my savings for rent and living expenses, as I was basically living paycheck to paycheck (and I am now, as well). This means that I don't have enough money to pay for the taxes that I owe for the period I was freelancing. To be transparent, I owe $3500, and only have $1000 spare right now, setting aside the money for the immigration paperwork and lawyer. Taxes are due soon and I feel so stuck.

For transparency: I am currently living paycheck to paycheck because Seattle is extremely expensive and my work is in a different county so it doesn't pay as well compared to living costs. I'm actively looking for another job so I have more stability in the long run, but right now my situation is urgent and I desperately need the help. I am setting a high goal because I hope to be able to cover everything I need and a bit extra to help with the stressful days where I can't cook and need to get takeouts. I hope that for my birthday this year, you can help chip in and help me move towards my goal of stability and safety.

Thank you all for reading.

-K