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Lino Escontrias

Hello, thank you for reading this. I'm trying the last avenue I thought I wouldn't have to grab onto. Beginning in 2015, I have been trying to establish a life for myself. I started working night shifts at Home Depot in Whittier, California, earning minimum wage and giving half my income as rent to a friend. After being kicked out of my aunt's house for leaving college, I needed a couch to sleep on. During this time, I met someone from southern Illinois, and we started a long-distance relationship. I worked and saved, hoping to build a life together, slowly moving east from Arizona to Minnesota, facing more setbacks and unstable housing along the way. My loved one kept me grounded, but as the pandemic hit, my mental health suffered. I developed severe agoraphobia, lost my job, and ended up living with their parents. Despite my efforts, our relationship broke down, and I was left alone in an apartment for three years. 
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 In 2023, I met new people, some of whom introduced me to drugs. I struggled with my mental health, but I kept trying to get back on track—going to school, working, and even rescuing a kitten, Tzitzi, who became my companion. I tried to help others, letting friends stay with me, but was often taken advantage of, losing money and stability. My relationships became more toxic, and after graduating, I became homeless. I donated plasma, used food stamps, and did everything I could to keep myself and Tzitzi safe. I want to mention that the shelter I stayed at in Carbondale was actually very good to me and provided a safe place when I needed it most. However, after moving out of the program to stay with the friend who later sent me to jail, I can't use their services temporarily. I tried to help a friend who had lost a leg, but the relationship became abusive, and I ended up in a situation that led to my arrest. 
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 Now, I have lost my job, my home, and access to my belongings. When I tried to retrieve my things, the police wouldn't let me in, and now everything I own may be gone. Tzitzi is being fostered, but if I can't pay the fees to keep him housed, I risk losing him too. I just want to go home to Minnesota with my cat and start over. Please, if not for me, help me get Tzitzi to our new home. I need funds for a U-Haul, moving expenses, storage, and to cover the costs to keep Tzitzi safe. Every bit helps. I just want my life back and to be reunited with my cat. Thank you for any support you can give.

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