A close friend of mine, an exceptionally gifted artist and generous community member, is facing an incredibly difficult chapter. I've seen them creating space for others, supporting friends in need, and bringing beauty and thoughtfulness into the world. Now they find themselves without a stable living space and many of the basic necessities of daily life.

On May 16, an EF-3 tornado tore through St. Louis, damaging neighborhoods across the city. Their apartment building was hit hard. The roof collapsed, and the space flooded, ruining almost all of their furniture and personal belongings. They’re now navigating the slow and uncertain process of recovery and relocation, and they’re doing it with very little material support.

This fundraiser is an effort to help them regain some stability: to cover the costs of rent and groceries for the next couple of months, and to furnish a new apartment with the essentials.

What We’re Raising Funds For

Rent and utilities (2 months)

Groceries and basic necessities

Furniture and household essentials

Our goal is $10,000 - This will provide a solid foundation for them to begin again in a safe, livable space.

Other Ways to Help

If you have gently used furniture or household items to donate, they are currently in need of:

Dining table and chairs

Mugs, dishes, utensils

Sofa or armchair

Desk

Bed frame and mattress

Bedside table

Coffee table

TV stand or media console

If you have items to offer or would like to coordinate a pickup, please contact me on my socials @royuptain. I have a pickup and straps.

This friend has poured so much of themselves into St. Louis and into art that spills over with creativity and depth. Those of us who know them know how much they’ve given and how much they deserve care in return.

If you’re able to give, thank you. If you’re able to share this, thank you, if you can donate furniture, thank you. If all you can do is hold them in your thoughts right now, that matters too. Thanks for helping them rebuild their lives.