Hey friends, family, kind people—

This isn’t the easiest thing to write, but I’m trying to be honest about where I’m at. I’m not great at asking for help, especially when it comes to finances—but I believe in putting things into the world with sincerity and letting community meet you where it can.

These days, I’m in grad school at the University of Oregon pursuing my Master's in Global Studies – specifically focusing on how queer people develop and express their identity in intercultural host families! So with all that, I decided to take time off this summer to focus on my mental health and just existing after what has been a decade of non-stop work. See picture of me smiling from one week ago!!! It’s been a necessary pause, and I’m proud of that choice. But it also means I’ve been living on very little, depending on food banks, mutual care, and a lot of stretching dollars in unique ways. I have always been proud of being able to live simply and being modest, but it has become quite the challenge.

In all honesty, making around $25k a year right now has been ROUGH hahahahaha. Recently, I have needed to look into a new car and while I don’t truly need a car to survive here, it would make a big difference in how I move through the rest of the summer. It would allow me to access Oregon, stay connected, and care for myself in this small window before school starts again in the fall. It’s not an emergency – of course, I can ride the bus and bike - but it’s something I’d love to make possible.

So, I’m putting this out there. If anyone in my extended network has $1–$5 to spare, I’d be incredibly grateful. Anything donated would go directly towards the down payment for a used lil’ Subaru a couple in town is willing to sell me. It is a great deal but just out of my reach. I am hoping it can be the next car to replace my trusted and well-adventured little tin of a Chevy Sonic. For me, I hope this car provides stability and reliability for the long haul.

So thank you all for reading. Your good thoughts and encouragement are more than enough. More than anything, thank you all for the understanding and kindness. This is a weird and vulnerable thing to do and well… what do I have to lose <3 I expect nothing but will be grateful for anything. Thank you to everyone for reading this, and I truly hope to return the kindness when I’m able.

<3 Michael