Hi, my name is Samira. I grew up in the Twin Cities and I go to school in Saint Paul. I’m studying Criminal Justice with a minor in Political Science. I’m also the youngest of 12, so I’ve always been surrounded by family, love, and sacrifice.

Right now, things feel really heavy for me. My mom owns a small store, and it hasn’t been doing well these past few months. I’ve watched her stress, worry, and try to stay strong for all of us, even when things are falling apart behind the scenes. She used to help me with school, even when it wasn’t easy for her, but now she can’t I and it’s not because she doesn’t want to, it’s because she simply can’t.

She’s been struggling to keep up with rent, and seeing that as her child hurts in a way I can’t really explain. I feel guilty asking her for anything, knowing everything she’s already carrying. At the same time, I’m trying to stay in school and keep going, but it’s been really hard doing it without that support.

I never imagined I would have to ask others for help like this. It’s honestly not easy for me to say all of this. But right now, I’m doing the best I can, and I just need a little support to keep going.

Anything helps, truly. Even just reading this means something to me.

Thank you for listening to my story. May God bless you, and may we all find ease in these difficult times.