Carmen Rivas

I have always worked hard and tried to do the right thing, but life has thrown me some tough challenges. Since 2021, I have been living with mental health struggles, seizures, depression, anxiety, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Becoming disabled meant I had to stop working after decades of supporting myself. While waiting for SSDI to be approved, I sold everything I could, including my car, just to get by. Even now, with SSDI, it’s a struggle to cover basic needs. I have tried to keep going by running a small online store and selling at craft events, but the costs often outweigh the income. Six months ago, I financed a car to help me get to appointments and try to rebuild, but now I owe more than it’s worth and can’t sell it. My medical bills are piling up, including co-payments for my RA injection and specialists treating my mental health, seizures, and vision. My next car payment and rent are due soon, and my credit card is maxed out from trying to keep up. I am not looking for pity—just a little help to get through this difficult time. Your support will make a real difference in my life, and I will be forever grateful for any help you can provide to help me regain my health and stability.

"Hi everyone, my name is Carmen R. I am a senior artisan and a craft business owner living on a fixed SSD income. I have been managing chronic Rheumatoid Arthritis for years, and while my crafts usually help me stay independent, I’ve hit a sudden 'perfect storm' this month. As a senior on a fixed budget, I don't have a safety net for sudden emergencies. Between an unexpected increase in my RA medication co-pays and urgent expenses that left my account overdrawn, I am facing a difficult April. I am asking for $2,100-$2,500 to help me bridge the gap this month. This amount will cover my rent, my new medication costs, and the fees/supplies I need to start my artisan event season in May. Once my events begin in May, I will have the income to manage my budget again. I just need this one-time help to get through April and keep my business—and my health—on track. Events: Roaring River Vineyards, May 10, Oct 17, Nov 28 Wilson Farmers and Artisan Market Thank you so much for supporting a senior artist. Even a small donation or a share of this link makes a huge difference."