Hello, my name is Tashira — I’m a single mom doing my best to provide for my two amazing kids, Taliana and Julius. In just about 3 weeks, Julius will be starting 7th grade, and a week after that, Taliana will be entering the 4th grade. They’re both smart, kind, humble and so excited for the new school year — but right now, I’m struggling to give them the kind of summer and fresh start back at school that every child deserves.
I love my job and work hard as a caregiver, but like so many mamas and families right now, I’m barely keeping up financially. I’m currently behind on July’s rent, and several other bills are past due as well. My rent has increased nearly $450 in the three years we’ve lived in our current apartment, and in the past two months, I’ve had to put out quite a bit for maintenance and unexpected vehicle repairs.
As much as I want to focus on back-to-school, I’m caught between trying to catch up on this month’s bills while bracing for next month’s all over again. Just endless survival mode.
As many parents know, clothes, shoes, and school supplies add up fast. Last year I spent about $500 per child just on just the basics. And with U.S. families averaging $700 per child for back-to-school — it’s simply more than I can manage right now.
On top of that, both of my kids need dental care, and Julius is at the age where braces are becoming more of a need than a want. It's been hard not being able to move forward with that for them, and it weighs on me daily.
It’s so hard to admit this, I just don't think I can make it all work on my own this time.
This is why I’m asking for help. I hope you can understand my situation and meet it with grace, not judgment. I don’t wish this struggle on anyone, and truthfully, it really shames me to ask — but here I am, doing it anyway, for my kids.
If you’re in a position to help, your kindness would mean the world to me — to us. Even if you can’t give, I completely understand. Every positive vibe, share, and prayer is appreciated just as much.
Every little bit helps Taliana and Julius walk into school with confidence, pride, and everything they need to thrive.
Thank you for reading, supporting, and simply caring. You're awesome.
May every bit of care and support you give come back to you tenfold!
With so much gratitude,
Tashira