Help Save Our Home. You Can Make A Difference.

Preserving Our Family Home - Your Support Can Make a Difference

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I am Monica Russup, and I am reaching out to you today in a time of great need. Recently, my world was turned upside down when my beloved mother passed away. Amidst the emotional turmoil that followed, I discovered a looming threat that could snatch away the place I've called home for 57 years – our family house.

Over the past three years, unknown to me and my mother, the real estate taxes on our cherished home have gone unpaid. Now, the deadline is fast approaching – August 31st – and I find myself facing an insurmountable challenge. We need to raise $1,008.42 to prevent our home from being put up for sale.

 (Update - thanks to all of you who have so generously donated so far, the initial payment has been made, but I have 3 more of $1066 in Nov, Feb, and May, and then the most recent ones. I am afraid I can't make all of these payments).

I work tirelessly, clocking in 40-plus hours a week, and I can make some payments. However, the lump sum required is beyond my reach, and that's where your support comes in.

I am not just a single mom; I am a single mom with responsibilities that extend beyond my own children. I have my two teenagers, one of whom is desperately seeking employment and re-enrolling in high school, while the other is diligently pursuing her education. Additionally, I care for my 37-year-old daughter, who battles a debilitating medical condition that sometimes leaves her unable to walk. She has a 10-year-old son, my grandson, who relies on us for stability and love.

To make matters more complex (but also filled with love), we share our home with five wonderful dogs. Our land, our sanctuary, is their playground. It's not just a house we're fighting for; it's a home where cherished memories have been made, and where we continue to build our family's legacy.

Let me be clear – my mother's oversight was not her fault, and I carry the weight of not being more vigilant. But, this place has been our sanctuary for generations, and I refuse to let it slip away without a fight.

You see, I'm not just anyone; I'm someone who's journeyed through the darkest of times and emerged on the other side. I am an addict in long-term recovery, and I've worked tirelessly for the past six years to rebuild my life. Right now, it feels like everything is unraveling, and I desperately need your help to hold it together.

The photo above is of our backyard, with the fence we put in for two of our five dogs. It also captures my three daughters and my grandson – the heartbeats of this home. We're a family trying to hold onto our little piece of heaven on Earth.

Any help, no matter how small, is a lifeline for us. Your generosity will not just rescue our home; it will breathe life into our dreams, provide a haven for our family, and preserve our history. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for anything you can contribute.

I love where I live, and with your support, I hope to continue living here and building a brighter future. To all those who have already donated, thank you for your kindness and belief in our cause. Together, we can save our home and continue writing the story of our family's life here for generations to come.

With immense gratitude,

Monica Russup and Family

Now, let me explain how your contributions will be used to achieve our campaign goal of $8,000.

The immediate and most pressing need is to settle the outstanding real estate taxes to prevent the sale of our family home. This payment is crucial to ensure we maintain a roof over our heads.

We have additional property tax payments due in November, February, and May, totaling $3,198. Your support will help us meet these ongoing obligations and secure our home's future.

To navigate the legal processes involved in rectifying our tax situation and preserving our home, we may require legal assistance. This fund will cover any necessary legal fees, documentation, and administrative costs.

Over the years, our family home has aged, and it needs some essential repairs and maintenance. These funds will go towards ensuring the safety and comfort of our living space.

 As mentioned, we have a family member battling a debilitating medical condition. This amount will be allocated to cover medical bills, medication, and other essential support services.

We are committed to providing educational opportunities for our children and helping them secure stable employment. This fund will assist in covering educational expenses and job-seeking costs.

Our dogs are an integral part of our family, and we want to ensure their well-being. This amount will be dedicated to their healthcare and maintenance.

Running a campaign involves various costs, including fundraising platform fees, communication, and outreach. This fund will support these necessary expenses to ensure the success of our campaign.

We want to account for any unexpected expenses or shortfalls to ensure we can meet all our financial obligations.

Your generous donations will not only save our home but also provide our family with the stability and security we need during this challenging time. Together, we can overcome this obstacle and continue building a brighter future for our family while preserving our cherished family history in our beloved home.

Thank you for your compassion, support, and belief in our cause. Your contributions will make a profound impact on our lives, and we are deeply grateful for your generosity.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Monica Russup and Family