Hey y'all, my name is Heather (professionally known as Phoenix). I'm reaching out for help to partly fund my future living space: a van.

I’ve been without a place of my own for several years, squatting or staying with friends—but I want to stop relying on the generosity of others and build something sustainable for myself.

I am self-employed as a tattoo artist, which accommodates my ADHD/being on the spectrum. Because of my social challenges and mental health care, maintaining consistent full-time work and affording rent is very difficult. I've adapted by living as simply as possible.

I've decided to save for a reliable van to live in—for both shelter and mobility to work as a traveling tattoo artist. This would also allow me to pursue another long-time goal: volunteering in disaster relief and similar mutual aid efforts across the country.

Toward this end, I’ve sold my car, cut back even more on non-essential purchases, and filed for bankruptcy. I’ve all been saving up by selling my art, handmade goods, and taking on as many tattoo clients as I can. Everything I earn goes to my van fund.

I’m asking for at least $5000 for help to purchase a reliable van—either a simple utility van I’ll build out over time, or a second-hand converted van that's ready to go. A larger budget means fewer repairs and a longer-lasting home.

I plan on saving at least the same amount, if not more, as I'm asking for with this GoFundMe. I need to secure a van before winter.

Getting this van would also reunite me with my sweet senior kitty cat Rollie, who’s staying with friends until I have stable shelter again. My goal is to take him on adventures with me. I really hope to be reunited with him soon.

I don’t take asking for help lightly. I’ve worked hard to move on from my complicated previous life and focus on rebuilding my mental/physical health.

This van will be a fresh start, a safe home, and a means to live simply and independently.

Anything you can help with—whether a donation or sharing this— brings me closer to stability and my fresh start.

Thank you so much for your support!