Reach my Dream - Software Engineer

Hello chosen family, community, and biological family,

I'm writing you because I'm currently experiencing tremendous financial struggle and need support. It is hard to have to write this because I have been independent and self-sufficient since I was 15 years old while I was living in foster care. 

I have gone through struggles in my life and have been fortunate enough to overcome them on my own and with a little support.

I'm going through the hardest struggle in my life right now. I'm 2 1/2 months away from applying for jobs and getting work as a software engineer, a dream I have had since I was in college but never thought to achieve because I rarely, if at all, saw anyone like me, a queer woman,  immigrant, foster youth, of color in the computer science field. As you can imagine, a year and a half without income results in tremendous poverty.

For a year and a half now, I have been working hard and have sacrificed so much to reach my dream, which will help me be able to become financially independent, support myself, my community, my family - chosen and biological. 

I need to raise about $2,000 to ensure my housing, bills, and health care are met during my last 3 months of school.  Currently, I'm in danger of losing housing and my car because of back rent and unpaid tickets. I also have been taking out a lot of payday loans to make ends meet.

I love you all and know this situation is temporary but until I get a full time job in April, I'm in dire straits. Any support you can give will be greatly appreciated. 

Help me reach my dream.

So much love to you all -
Ai