Jimmy  Darts

SB Mowing

Pattie Gonia

Little Miss Flint

Kalina Silverman / @makebigtalk on Instagram

Samuel Weidenhofer

Patriotic Kenny Foundation

Ben Saunders - Flawless Cleaning

The Dogist

Peter Bond

Amy Jandrisevits

Ask Uncle Jack

That Good News Girl

Tess Bohne

FowlMouthFarmer

Latonja and Taylor Richardson

Officer Richard Craig

Flavor Flav

John Wolfe

Khloe

<div>With heavy hearts, on behalf of the family, we are raising funds to help cover the funeral expenses for Cesar Adrian Vernaza Vinces, who tragically lost his life at Salsa on St. Clair.
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<div>During this incredibly difficult time, we are asking for the support of our family, friends, the friends of El Negro Estrada ("Luisito"), Cesar's brother, and our community to help give Cesar the respectful farewell he deserves.
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<div>Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly toward funeral and memorial expenses. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with others would mean just as much and help us reach more people.
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<div>We are deeply grateful for your kindness, generosity, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Your compassion and generosity are a great source of comfort to Cesar's family as they  go through this heartbreaking loss.
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Cesar Adrian Vernaza Vinces. "Luisito Brother"

Team KW: support Karen Ward as she tackles cancer

<div>hello besties, my name is Sierra I am an autisitic autism mom to two beautiful baby besties. I had my tubes taken out &amp; they removed cancerous cells/polyps/cysts - now I’ve been sent to collections for over 20,000. As a stay at home mom just making it by, I am unable to pay it back… I love you all  (&amp; feel silly making this) 
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Help the besties!!

<div><strong>Hello world, I'm Rawan</strong>
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<div>Please read this as if you were a member of your own family. Maybe your sister, your daughter, or your friend, as if my family that is dying now is your family.
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<div><strong>My name is Rawan</strong>. A newly graduated engineer from Gaza, a new engineer who was supposed to start her career and achieve the dreams she worked for, but she found herself losing the city in which she lived and losing any hope for a better future with it. <strong>After 5 full years of study and training, the war had another idea.</strong>
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<div>Since the war on <strong>Gaza began</strong>, it has <strong>lost almost everything</strong>
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<div><strong>On October 14 last year</strong>, just one week after the war started, <strong>I lost nearly 30 members of my family (my husband's family) in one second.</strong> One missile was enough to end their lives. My husband’s uncles, their children, and their grandchildren. <strong>Some of them even remained under the rubble. My mother’s sister (my aunt) lost her children</strong>, children who were no more than 12 years old, and none of them survived.
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<div>This was a huge shock not only to me, but to my family because they lost their relatives and families in the blink of an eye.
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<div>My loss does not end here, because for us Gazans, death knocks on our door every day, and every new day under the war is the possibility of a new loss.
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<div>This cycle of loss did not end here. After more than <strong>5 times of displacement </strong>and having to leave our home to escape missiles and death, what saddens me is that I was not able to take anything from my home, clothes for me and my children, my husband’s laptop that he was working on, and some important papers, anything. We have a memory.... We left with only the clothes we were wearing, and this was by order of the army when it told us to go to the south because it was a safe area and not to carry anything with us. Frankly, at that time, nothing was important anymore. The important thing was that we flee and survive this. In the crazy bombing, we took refuge in the city of Rafah and I gave birth to my very beautiful child, Julia. I wished that time would stop so that she would not come to life, and we were not in our warm home in the middle of our large family. She had everything she needed. I wanted her to stay inside me for fear that something bad would happen to her, but the opposite of what we had planned happened. Unfortunately, it arrived...
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<div><strong>Before</strong>
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<div><strong>After</strong>
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<div><strong>Eliana</strong>, my three-year-old daughter, whose birthday we were supposed to celebrate on<strong> October 13</strong>, was impatiently waiting for it and always asking what we would do, how we would decorate the house, and what dress she would wear, but the war made her forget this day in all its details and everything she had planned for her due to the intensity of her fear and shock, but she returned.
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<div>To remember her beautiful dress and the bag she wants to wear. 
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<div>I understand that she wants us to return to our home. Every place we go, she tells us that it is not beautiful and she does not want to stay there. How could she not, when we moved from a beautiful, very large, secure house in which everything was clean and healthy, to a small, dark room? We sleep and wake up and cook with it in Rafah and then to a room in a destroyed house in Khan Yunis. She misses our house and asks when we will return so she can play with her toys and watch her favorite cartoons on TV (Coco Melon). She does not know that the house has been destroyed and only its memories remain with us. What saddens me is that All her words became bombing, evacuation, a plane, a tank, and wounded, and fear filled her eyes.
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<div><strong>My husband</strong> is a talented person who loves his work very much, and he was always striving to develop his knowledge. He obtained a master’s degree and was preparing to study for a doctorate in software engineering and to get a promotion at his job. He wanted us to allocate a room for him to work with a desk and everything he needed, in our new house, but the war broke out. Faster than that and he lost everything and his main job now became just trying to provide the few basic necessities of life (food, clean water).
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<div>I initially introduced myself as an <strong>engineer from Gaza with dreams, a girl in her twenties with professional plans and goals she wants to achieve</strong>, a person who has lost a lot in a short period of time. But the most important thing in this war is that I am a mother who sees the future of her children being lost before her eyes. I also see my daughter who was supposed to begin her journey in education and <strong>was supposed to be in kindergarten Kg1</strong>, and my daughter who I gave birth to two months after the beginning of the war at a time when Pampers and milk were cut off and she was adopted. Completely on natural milk, even though we did not find food or even care for myself, and my husband, who found himself forced to start from scratch when he was supposed to catch his breath after we built the house we dream of, and it cost us years of effort to build it and everything we had to get by. 
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<div>A stable life, but unfortunately we did not complete the year living in it, so I made it a mission to save myself and my family and support my husband to save our future and the future of our children from all this and escape from Gaza.
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<div>All I have left is my family, me, my husband, my children, and my husband’s family (my mother and his two brothers only). My mother, father, and my sisters and brothers were able to leave Gaza, and before I lose anyone from my family, I intend to evacuate my family of 8 members from Gaza:
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<div>* <strong>Me, my husband, and our children</strong> (Rawan, Ahmed, my daughter Eliana, Julia, Younis)
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<div>* <strong>My husband’s mother and his two brothers</strong> (Muhammad, Abdullah).
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<div>The situation after almost 9 months of this genocide is that the Gaza borders are unfortunately still closed and no one can get out of them, of course unless you pay the largest amount of money to save your life and cross the Rafah border to reach Egypt. Crossing the Rafah crossing costs about 7000 to 9000 A dollar per person, and as a family of 8 it seems impossible to afford the amount we have to pay just to get to Egypt.
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<div>So here's how the money will be spent:
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<div>*Payment of approximately $7,000 USD for each member of my family of 8
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<div> Individuals to cross the Rafah border and arrive safely in Egypt
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<div>* About $6,000 covers GoFundMe transaction fees (2.9% + $0.30 per transaction)
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<div>* The rest of the money will be for housing, food, etc. for a period of time in Egypt.
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<div>Asking for your help is the only way I have to save my family's life and future. May your help become our hope when hope is far from us under these circumstances. Every dollar you can help may save a life, bring hope to the life of a tired heart and save the future of young people.
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<div>Please don't read this story as a tragic story, I'm here to ask you to stop it from getting any more tragic and help us start our lives over. I am here to ask for your help not your sympathy, to ask you to take action whether by donating or by sharing this with everyone you know who can help, please read this with your heart and take action as if it were your family or your mom, your siblings who are living in these circumstances.
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Help rawan's family in Gaza rebuild a life

<div>Hi I am Kathleen Rea a friend of Mika's.
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<div>Mika, a dancer, scholar, capoeirista, filmmaker, and mother of two young kids has had severe pneumonia for the past three weeks and has been in the hospital for 12 days and just got news of further complications and procedures that are needed that will extend her hospital stay. She would like to purchase a blue light therapy device that she can use on her lung area to support her recovery as well as hire night time care support. The device works well for the lungs because it is malleable and can be wrapped around her torso.
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<div>The device is a Celluma Pro costs $1745.85 and amount raised over that amount will be put towards hiring nighttime care.
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<div><strong>Here is same data on blue light therapy for lung healing</strong>
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<div>Light Therapy and Lung inflammation
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<div>Below is an excerpt from another Dr. Hamblin paper:
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<div>Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.
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<div>Michael R Hamblin 1, 2, 3,*
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<div>1. Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, BAR414, 40 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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<div>2. Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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<div>3. Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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<div>Celluma Red LED on Back Celluma Pro on Upper Back Celluma Pro on Lower Back
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<div>(page 10). Aimbire and his laboratory in Brazil have carried out several studies on the use of PBM to reduce acute lung inflammation (ALI) in various animal models. In a mouse model of lung inflammation caused either by inhalation of lipolysaccharide or intranasal administration of TNFα they analyzed the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). PBM (660 nm, 4.5 J/cm2) was administered to the skin over the right upper bronchus 15 min after ALI induction. PBM attenuated the neutrophil influx and lowered TNFα in BALF. In alveolar macrophages, PBM increased cAMP and reduced TNFα mRNA.
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<div>They also studied a different model of ALI caused by intestinal ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), that produces an analogue of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) [78]. Rats were subjected to superior mesenteric artery occlusion (45 min) and received PBM (660 nm, 7.5 J/cm2) carried out by irradiating the rats on the skin over the right upper bronchus for 15 and 30 min, and rats were euthanized 30 min, 2, or 4 h later. PBM reduced lung edema, myeloperoxisdase activity, TNF-α and iNOS, LLLT increased IL-10 in the lungs of animals subjected to I/R.
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<div>A third animal model was related to asthma [79]. Mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA), and then challenged by a single 15-min exposure to aerosolized OVA. PBM was applied as above (660 nm, 30 mW, 5.4 J). Bronchial hyper-responsiveness (as measured by dose response curves to acetylcholine) was reduced by PBM as well as reductions in eosinophils and eotaxin. PBM also diminished expression of intracellular adhesion molecule and Th2 cytokines, as well as signal transducer and activator of transduction 6 (STAT6) levels in lungs from challenged mice. Recently Rigonato-Oliveira et al. presented a study that concluded that the reduced lung inflammation and the positive effects of PBM on the airways appear to be mediated by increased secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and reduction of mucus in the airway [80].
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<div>How Light Therapy Reduces Pain
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<div>Poor circulation and the lack of oxygen and other essential molecules (i.e., glucose, Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)) in blood vessels can cause pain or a lack of sensation. Light energy stimulates the release of nitric oxide, causing blood vessels to increase in diameter (vasodilation) and allowing more blood flow, oxygen, and other important nutrients to be delivered to the tissue. This increase in oxygen and nutrients, along with stimulation of the light energy emitted from Celluma increases ATP production, which activates pain relieving pathways. This decreases pain and inflammation, and increases tissue regeneration in the localized area.
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<div>Here at Celluma, we continue to explore new indications for LED light therapy, design innovative products and to conduct clinical trials to assess efficacy and applications. Speak with our Clinical Specialists to answer any questions you may have Monday-Friday from 7AM-5PM Pacific.
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Blue Light Therapy & nighttime care for Mika Lior's recovery

<div>My dear friend Samantha lost her home in the devastating Eaton Fire in Los Angeles. In the blink of an eye, she lost not only her living space but also her essential belongings, art supplies, and the tools she relies on for her livelihood.
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<div>My name is Lukas Taylor, I am out of state, Samantha has always been there for me, it's time to be there for her.
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<div>Samantha is an artist and a resilient individual, but the road ahead is daunting. She needs support to get back on her feet and replace vital necessities like toiletries, clothing, and other daily essentials. Additionally, as an artist, her creative tools are essential for her work and emotional recovery. Replacing these will help her resume her art and get back her life.
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<div>This fundraiser will help Samantha cover:
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<div>-Basic needs like toiletries, food, and clothing
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<div>-Art supplies critical to her work
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<div>-Lost income and unexpected expenses during this time
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<div>Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference in helping Samantha after this unimaginable loss. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with your community can also go a long way in helping her during this challenging time.
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<div>Let’s come together to support Samantha and remind her she’s not alone. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.
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Help Support Samantha After the Eaton Fire

<div><strong>FUNDRAISING GOAL MET!!!</strong>
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<div>I delight to share that the Trans Launch Pad is fully funded and I am recovering well. Thank you to every single person who donated, shared, sent me well wishes and donated again! 
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<div>What an incredible experience for me ot aks for help in this way and be completely met, encouraged and supported.
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<div>If you are in the fence about asking for help, I recommend connecting with your higher Self, and asking for help!
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<div>with love
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<div>Lamia
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<div>Jan 19, 2025
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<div>Hi, I’m Lamia, reaching out for support to recover from top surgery and rebuild a stable life for myself and my two kids.
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<div>For 20+ years, I’ve created safe spaces for LGBTQIA, IBMPOC folks and uplifted practitioners of various healing modalities. Now, I need my community to help me rise from a place of survival to stability.
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<div>Why I Need Your Help:
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<div>On Jan 7, 2025 I will have top surgery. In addition to surgery recovery, I am also recovering from severe burnout. Your donation (of any size) will help to lift me out of a cycle of poverty and stabilize my foundation—for myself, my kids, clients, and community.
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<div>Without a family safety net, I’m asking for the strength of community to help me make this pivotal transition.
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<div>Here’s What I Need:
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<div>Top Surgery: $3,500 (for what's not covered by OHIP)
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<div>Recovery Time: $15,000 (2 months of expenses for me and my kids)
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<div>Rebuilding Fund: $6,500 (for license fees, taxes, and creating an emergency fund)
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<div>These funds will provide the stability I need to recover fully, rebuild, and relaunch into a sustainable future where I can continue serving others without the constant burden of financial precarity.
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<div>The Math:
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<div>Much like the sliding scale models I’ve co-created over the years, our strength lies in collective numbers. I invite you to donate what you can <em>and</em> share this with your networks. Please send this to anyone who is an ally or 2SLGBTQIA. Also your grandma, cousin, bestie and work huswife are great too! If 1,000 people each give $25, I’ll reach my goal. Whether you donate, share, or both—every action makes a difference.
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<div>Why This Matters:
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<div>Your support will make a profound difference, helping me overcome barriers, find balance, and continue giving back. Thank you for being in my corner.
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<div>Together, we can make this launch pad a reality!
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<div>Thank you everyone.
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Lamia’s Trans Launch Pad: Top Surgery & Path to Stability

<div>Hello,
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<div>My name is Katerina Kaufmann and I live in Switzerland.
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<div>I have created this Gofunde for my dear friend Noor who is living in the horrors of the war in Gaza. Noor is a wonderful young woman and a mother of tree beautiful children - Hala, Adam and baby Saif who was born during this war.
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<div>Before the war, Noor and her husband Ayman owned a kindergarten that was free of charge for the children. Both dedicated teachers are eager to start rebuilding their lives. Thus is the reason for creating this campaign for them.
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<div>The amount will be used for rebuilding their house and the kindergarten , both were bombed during the war.
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<div>It is little by little to be able together to help them get back to life after the difficult times they are facing now during this war.
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<div>Noor, Ayman and their children deserve a better future as everyone else in this world!
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<div>I thank you a million times from the bottom of my heart!
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<div>Please donate and share the campaign!
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<div>The kindergarten before and after being bombed:
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<div>Their house now:
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<div>Beautiful Hala and Adam:
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<div>Baby Saif:
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<div>The children with their Dad Ayman:
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<div>For private reasons a photo of Noor is not posted. We hope for your understanding.
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<div>Donations, after being processed, are being transferred via bank account to Noor by me!
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Lets together help Noor`s Family rebuild their life

<div><em>[Traduction française en bas de page / french translation at the bottom page]</em>
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<div>We are urgently calling for your support to help the Al-Seikali family, who are desperately trying to escape the dangers of ongoing conflict in Gaza. This family of six has been living under the constant threat of bombardment, which has destroyed their home and means of livelihood.
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<div><strong>Family Background :</strong>
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<div>Muhammad Yahya Mustafa Al-Seikali, a hardworking barber, along with his wife Rawaa (31yo) and their four children : Suhaib (12yo), Lana (9yo), Mustafa (5yo), and Sanad (1yo), have been enduring unimaginable hardships. Their barber shop, the family’s sole source of income, was obliterated in the recent attacks, leaving them without work for over six months. Now, they struggle daily to survive with minimal access to food, water, and electricity, all while bombs continue to fall around them.
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<div><strong>Urgent Needs :</strong>
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<div>Several family members have pressing medical needs that cannot be met under the current conditions. The cost to safely evacuate to Egypt is 9,000$ per adult, which is beyond their reach without assistance. Additionally, they need funds for basic necessities such as food, water, and medical supplies upon arrival in Egypt. The goal of this campaign is to raise 80,000€ to cover:
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<li>Evacuation costs
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<li>Basic necessities including food, water, and medical needs in Egypt
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<li>GoFundMe fees and international transfer taxes
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<li>Interim travel expenses and temporary housing in Egypt until they can find stability
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<div><strong>Your Impact :</strong>
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<div>Every donation, no matter how small, will directly contribute to bringing safety and a semblance of normalcy to the Al-Seikali family. With your help, we can provide them with a chance to rebuild their lives in a safe environment and secure the immediate care they desperately need.
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<div>We thank you for your generosity and kindness in helping the Al-Seikali family during these critical times. Please share their story and help us reach our goal of 80,000€ to ensure their safety and well-being.
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<div>Donate now to make a difference !
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<div><strong>FRANÇAIS</strong> :
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<div>Nous sollicitons d'urgence votre soutien pour aider la famille Al-Seikali, qui tente désespérément d'échapper aux dangers du conflit en cours à Gaza. Cette famille de six personnes vit sous la menace constante des bombardements, qui ont détruit leur maison et leurs moyens de subsistance.
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<div><strong>Contexte familial :</strong>
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<div>Muhammad Yahya Mustafa Al-Seikali, un coiffeur barbier, avec sa femme Rawaa (31 ans) et leurs quatre enfants : Suhaib (12 ans), Lana (9 ans), Mustafa (5 ans), et Sanad (1 an), endurent des difficultés inimaginables. Leur salon de coiffure, seule source de revenu de la famille, a été détruit lors des récentes attaques, les laissant sans travail depuis plus de six mois. Maintenant, ils luttent quotidiennement pour survivre avec un accès minimal à la nourriture, à l'eau et à l'électricité, tandis que les bombes continuent de tomber autour d'eux.
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<div><strong>Besoins urgents :</strong>
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<div>Plusieurs membres de la famille ont des besoins médicaux urgents qui ne peuvent pas être satisfaits dans les conditions actuelles. Le coût pour évacuer en toute sécurité vers l'Égypte est de 9 000 $ par adulte, ce qui est hors de leur portée sans assistance. De plus, ils ont besoin de fonds pour les nécessités de base telles que la nourriture, l'eau et les fournitures médicales à leur arrivée en Égypte. L'objectif de cette campagne est de récolter 80 000 € pour couvrir :
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<li>Les frais d'évacuation
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<li>Les nécessités de base, y compris la nourriture, l'eau et les besoins médicaux en Égypte
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<li>Les frais GoFundMe et les taxes de transfert international
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<li>Les frais de voyage intermédiaires et le logement temporaire en Égypte jusqu'à ce qu'ils puissent trouver une stabilité
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<div><strong>Comment agir ?</strong> 
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<div>Donnez et partagez ! Chaque don, aussi petit soit-il, contribuera directement à apporter sécurité et un semblant de normalité à la famille Al-Seikali. Avec votre aide, nous pouvons leur offrir une chance de reconstruire leur vie dans un environnement sûr et d'assurer les soins immédiats dont ils ont désespérément besoin.
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<div>Nous vous remercions pour votre générosité et votre gentillesse en aidant la famille Al-Seikali en ces temps critiques. Veuillez partager leur histoire et nous aider à atteindre notre objectif de 80 000 € pour assurer leur sécurité et leur bien-être.
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<div>Faites un don maintenant pour faire la différence !
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<div>Our Home before the Attack :
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<div>Our Home after the attack :
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Help Sand and Mustafa Family find Safety and Stability

<div>In January 2023, I left Gaza and moved to Toronto, Canada to start a new life. Upon seeing the stability and opportunities available in Canada compared to Gaza, I decided that staying here would be a great option. It was a godsend that I wasn't in Gaza during the war. However, all of my family still resides there
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<div>After the war, my family lost all our family businesses. Now, I'm expecting my brother and his wife to join me in Canada through a special measure program, I have a huge responsibility to support them and other family members until they find their own way.
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<div>I'm currently living in a shared place and I need to move to another place that would fit us and help them settle in Canada. I found that starting a home-based business would help all of us in our new journey and also would let us help our family back home as well.
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<div>I've started planning to open my own small bakery in Toronto. I've created a menu and tested some items with customers, receiving great feedback. One customer even said my falafel is the best they've ever tried in the city!
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<div>I'm passionate about making food and want to bring Gaza flavors to people in Toronto. I'll be using my mom's and grandmother's recipes to create unique dishes.
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<div>By supporting this campaign, you'll help create job opportunities for my brother and his wife and support my other family members. Together, we can create a small place filled with the flavors of my country.
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<div>Budget Breakdown:
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<li><strong>Rent for New Place</strong>: As I mentioned, I currently live in shared accommodation and need to move to a new place that accommodates me, my son, and my family. This fund will help cover the initial rent and allow me to begin work on my business ($6000)
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<li><strong>Permits and Licenses: </strong>Ensure I have all the necessary permits and licenses to operate a food business from home in Toronto. This may include health permits, business licenses, and possibly zoning permits if there are specific regulations regarding home-based businesses. Budget: $1,000.
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<li><strong>Equipment: </strong>Since I'll be operating from home, I'll need separate kitchen equipment such as an oven, refrigerator, freezer, mixer, and baking pans. I might be able to find some second-hand equipment to save money. Budget: $4,000.
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<li><strong>Ingredients and Supplies:</strong> Purchase initial ingredients and supplies to start baking. This includes flour, sugar, spices, oils, packaging materials, etc. Consider buying in bulk to save money in the long run. Budget: $3,000.
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<li><strong>Marketing and Branding:</strong> Invest in marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and possibly a basic website to showcase my menu and contact information. I may also want to set aside some funds for social media advertising to reach more potential customers. Budget: $1,000.
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<li><strong>Training and Development:</strong> If there are any specific skills I need to improve or if I want to attend workshops or courses related to baking or small business management, I'll allocate some funds for this purpose. Budget: $500-$1,000.
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<li><strong>Initial Inventory:</strong> Purchase initial ingredients and supplies to start baking. This includes flour, sugar, spices, oils, packaging materials, etc. Consider buying in bulk to save money in the long run. Budget: $1,000-$2,000.
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<li><strong>Contingency Fund:</strong> It's always wise to have some funds set aside for unexpected expenses or emergencies that may arise during the initial stages of my business. Budget: $1,000-$2,000.
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<li><strong>Additional Expenses:</strong> Depending on my specific needs and circumstances, there may be additional expenses such as insurance, transportation costs, or utilities. I'll be sure to account for these in my budget as well. Budget: Variable.
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<div>I will update you and keep you posted on the progress.
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Help my family to settle in Canada and start a new life

<div>My family in Rio Branco, Canoas RS, Brazil has been profoundly impacted by recent floods, leaving them without homes. The image above is a photo of my grandmother's house taken on May 4th.
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<div>We're rallying together to make a difference, and we need your help through this. Join us in extending a helping hand to those who have lost everything. Your contribution will directly aid in rebuilding of their homes, replacing furniture, and their future. We are trying to help as many families as possible so anything helps
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<div>Please join us in demonstrating our unwavering support for our families, and fellow human beings in their time of need. Together, we can alleviate the suffering and begin the process of rebuilding lives.
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<div>Thank you sincerely for your consideration and kindness.
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Flood relief for my family&other families in Canoas, Brazil

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<div>Hello,
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<div>I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to share the dire circumstances my family and I are facing in Rafah, Gaza Strip.
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<div><strong>My name is Mohammad, and I am a father to three wonderful children: Jana, Kareem, and Ahmad.</strong>
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<div>Our once peaceful community has been ravaged by chaos, destruction, and the relentless onslaught of war, leaving us displaced and destitute.
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<div>As a parent, witnessing the toll this conflict has taken on my children is heart-wrenching. Jana, Kareem, and Ahmad are haunted by fear and anxiety, their innocence overshadowed by the uncertainty of life amidst constant drone strikes and ceaseless bombardment.
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<div>The basic necessities of life—education, healthcare, safety—have become luxuries beyond our reach.
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<div>The cost of crossing the Rafah border stands as a barrier to our safety. Egypt currently requests approximately $5500 per person to secure permission to leave. With 5 people, the cost of securing permissions alone amounts to $27500, in addition to administrative fees and other travel expenses to reach safety in Egypt.
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<div>We have submitted a plea for assistance to facilitate our evacuation from Rafah to Egypt, but we lack the necessary funds to make this journey a reality.
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<div>I implore you, in the name of humanity and compassion, to extend your support to our cause. Our children's lives hang in the balance, their innocence slipping away with each passing day of violence and turmoil.
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<div>Your generosity and solidarity in this time of crisis will not only save lives but also restore a sense of dignity and hope to a community shattered by war.
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<div>Thank you for your attention to our plea, and may peace and compassion guide your actions.
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<div>Thank you for your understanding and generosity.
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<div>Here are the links to the family's campaign on Instagram:
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<div>Instagram: Mohammed's Family
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<div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mohammadnwajha?igsh=MTVkaHd2ZzIxN3N5Nw==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mohammadnwajha?igsh=MTVkaHd2ZzIxN3N5Nw==" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.instagram.com/mohammadnwajha?igsh=MTVkaHd2ZzIxN3N5Nw==</a></a>
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<div>Please feel free to share these links to support the family from Gaza.
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<div>With heartfelt gratitude,
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<div>Mohammed
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Help us evacuate from "Gaza" to Egypt

<div>UPDATE (02/25/24): As we have now reached our goal and able to finalize all arrangements, we would like to extend a huge thank you to family, friends, and strangers alike for all of your generous donations, love, and support. We are<span> extremely grateful and touched by this outpouring; whether through your contributions, condolences, or messages of concern, they have all been a needed light during a dark time. Thank you, again.</span>
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<div>It is with extremely heavy hearts we share the sudden and tragic passings of Rommelia Dianne Asuncion and her five month old daughter Morgyn Rose on February 1, 2024. As the family continues to receive updates related to a domestic dispute, their passings can only be described as devastating and senseless; innocent lives taken much too soon.





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<div>Rommelia, also known to many as "Dane" or “Meldi”, came to Canada from the Philippines just over nine years ago not only to reunite with her sister, mother, and extended family, but like many who come here, to find a better life and future in Canada. With determination and hard work, she was able to receive her citizenship two years ago, proudly taking her oath alongside her mother. If you knew Rommelia, many would immediately describe her as a kind and positive light. With a shy but beautiful smile, she was strong in many ways, with the most genuine and easy-going disposition. She worked hard, loved her family deeply, and gracious to everyone she met. On August 27, 2023 Rommelia became a mother to Morgyn Rose. With luscious dark hair, a button nose, and large yet precious eyes, Morgyn soon became the gem of the family. It was hard not to see how incredibly happy and proud she was to be a mother to this beautiful baby girl; the apple of her eye, the blessing she had always been waiting for.





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<div>And now, due to an unfathomable circumstance, Rommelia &amp; Morgyn leave behind a heartbroken mother and grandmother Divinia, and two sisters Rebecca and Sheila who must also grieve the loss of their niece. As we try to make sense of this tragedy and come to terms with this profound loss, we are faced with the unexpected and overwhelming burden of arranging not one, but two funerals.





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<div>With permission from the family and in honour of Rommelia and Morgyn's memory, we kindly ask, if you are able, to donate funds to help alleviate the strain associated with memorial and funeral expenses. These funds will hopefully also help facilitate the travel expenses needed to bring Rommelia's sister and niece from the Philippines to Canada.





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<div>Every donation, no matter the amount, is greatly appreciated. Please note, this Gofundme was created by myself along with help from the extended America family on behalf of/with consent from my aunt and cousin, Divinia (also referred to as Digna) and Rebecca. All donations collected here will be going directly to their accounts. If you are not able to donate, please share if you can, and keep us in your prayers.





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Funeral expenses for Rommelia and baby Morgyn

<div>We are devastated at the loss of Thomas Henry Tinken in the early hours of October 29, 2023.
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<div>Thomas went to the hospital on October 13, and shortly after, he was diagnosed with kidney cancer. Causing more problems was the fact that a bit of cancerous material had broken off and blocked his heart, causing heart failure. After surgery to remove the kidney and the blockage in his heart, Thomas deteriorated quickly, and Thomas passed just two days later. Melanie is devastated at the loss of her father.
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<div>This leaves Melanie, his only child, to shoulder the responsibilities of tying up his affairs, clearing the apartment, looking after Tom's geriatric cat Leo, and caring for her mother, who is in Long Term Care suffering from dementia. Melanie has to do all of this on her own, since except for her senior aunt, she has no extended family in Canada.
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<div>Melanie is looking at the prospect of having to shoulder lawyers fees, for both the estate, and taking power of attorney for her mother. And Leo the cat desperately needs to see a vet. Adding to the burden is the search for a will, which may or may not exist, and if the will cannot be found there will be more burdensome costs for Melanie to bear. It seems every day there are more costs that seem to arise. And with all of this, Melanie still has to keep herself going, fed, and a roof over her head, all while grieving and trying to do what needs to be done with her father’s affairs.
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<div>I have created this GoFundMe campaign on Melanie’s behalf in the hopes that you might help in this incredibly challenging time. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will help her with these unexpected end of life costs,  to care for her mother, the cat, and settle all of her fathers affairs, and help alleviate the stress that all of this has put upon her while also grieving the sudden loss of her father. Thank you, for anything you can give.
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Thomas Henry Tinken

<div>Hurricane Otis hot Acapulco just after midnight on October 25. Most people went to sleep expecting it to be a tropical storm and unprepared for what happened. In 12 hours Otis turned in to a category 5 hurricane devasting Acapulco and the surrounding area. This is unprecedented. 
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<div>We still have not heard from Sebastian's family or friend's and as we wait for news that they are all ok Sebastian is trying to focus on how to help them through what will undoubtedly be a long and hard recovery for a city already plagued by poverty and violence. 
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<div>Sebastian will be running a 9km race for Day of the Dead this weekend and will be running in honour of his family, his friends and his home town.
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<div>If you can help by donating even a small amount it will go so far in helping the family in the aftermath of this horrible storm. 
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<div>We will donate  directly to family members based on their specific needs once we are bale to understand the extend of the damage to their homes, and their livelihoods.  
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<div>We will update once we know everyone is safe! 
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Hurricane Recovery for Sebastian's Family

<div>Hi!  My name is Andrew Gurza. I live with Cerebral Palsy, use a wheelchair and I am severely disabled.  I am in need of a new ceiling lift for my home.  These lift devices are essential for severely disabled people like me to get in and out of bed each day, and they help to ensure that this is done safely and securely.  These lifts are not funded by the government or any agency, nor are the seen as essential devices by the government.  Over the last 6 months, my current lift has been serviced 4-6 times only to break repeatedly.  When they break, this means that I risk having to sleep in my wheelchair or run the risk of being trapped in my bed. 
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<div>I will be using the funds to buy 2 lifts; one that I will use daily to get in and out of bed, and one that I will have as a back up lift should my daily lift not work.  This will ensure that I always have a safe, reliable way to be transferred that does not hurt the staff or the people helping me, and it will ensure that I never have to sleep in my wheelchair. 
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<div>The cost of one lift is 3,495.00.  I am raising money for $6,990.00 so that I can purchase the two.  Please help if you can.  Many people who need these types of devices, and so many others don't recognize how vital they are.  Your help will ensure a severely disabled person can simply get in and out of bed safely.
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<div>Thank you 
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<div>xo 
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<div>Andrew 
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Help Andrew Get In and Out of Bed Safely

<div>Whether you know it or not, if you are part of Toronto's ballroom community, FreedomSchool community or even have a kid in TDSB - you have probably been shown love by Posh.  When is comes to our community dinners, camps, school snack or programs it is often Posh cooking the jerk chicken, bbq chicken or crab curry.  You may have been shown love through Posh's amazing cooking or his presence, kindness and support.    
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<div>In this moment - Posh is in need of our love and support full circle.  Since September, 2022 Posh has been battling with colon cancer.  Since finding out about Posh's illness in 2022 - our only wish was for him to get better.  God willing - 90% of Posh's tumour has shrunk and no new cancer has been detected.
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<div>However, the impact of all this on Posh's life has been extreme.  He has dealt with loss of work due to undergoing chemotherapy and having to focus on his health.  At this moment he is need of financial support to address: back-rent, bills and a diet to support his recovery.
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<div>We appreciate your support in contributing and sharing whatever you can.  &lt;3 
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Support For Posh's Health and Recovery

<div><strong><em>Psst! Jess needs funds for urgent, live-saving spinal surgeries &amp; subsequent recovery.</em></strong>
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<div>"The time has come," the Walrus said, "to put our pride aside. To lean into the folks we love so that we may survive."
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<div>Okay, so botched <em>Alice in Wonderland</em> quote aside, HI! I'm Jess, the founder of <a href="https://www.thefailureball.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Failure Ball</a>, a national mental health nonprofit that celebrates screw ups &amp; raises cash in the name of suicide prevention.
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<div><strong>I also happen to be really friggin' sick right now, and kinda fighting for my life. (<em>Whomp, whomp.</em>)</strong>
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<div>At the start of June, I bolted awake from a lovely dream about cleaning a Taco Bell, and instantly knew something was deeply wrong. (Not because of the dream — I love me a cheesy gordita crunch every now &amp; again.)
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<div>Rather, the panic was from extreme disorientation. I was seeing everything in triple, uncontrollably yarfing and trying not to aspirate, and couldn't lift my head up, let alone crawl into the bathroom.
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<div>Since then, it's been 8 weeks of hospital stays, blood patches, and the mental and physical gymnastics of diagnostic tests.
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<div><strong>Finally, I am SO stoked (and terrified) to say that I finally have some answers.</strong>
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<div>As it turns out, I have a thing called Tarlov Cyst Disease, paired with a high-flow cerebral spinal fluid leak — which basically means the nerve roots coming out of my spine have created tumors filled with cerebral spinal fluid.
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<div>When they burst, the fluid pours everywhere into my body, *except* my brain. (We need it in my brain so I can do some cute things like not seize, stroke out, or die. )
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<div>I have multiple cysts on both sides of my spine, from my brain stem down to my butt, compressing nerves along the way and starving my brain of essential nutrients. Some of them are no biggie, but the two big tumors in my neck are making it hard to keep kickin'.
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<div><strong>Now for the real pity party. (I'll bring the streamers and cake.)</strong>
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<div>Over the last 2 months, my life has come to a screeching halt. The main symptoms are blinding headaches within 3 minutes of sitting or standing, near-constant nausea &amp; vomiting, and extreme nerve pain radiating down both arms and into my hands — making them essentially unusable. (Shoutout to my husband for typing this all up for me.)
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<div>Extreme blurry vision is a thing, plus intense back pain, and the deepest depression I've ever felt. I also have weakness in half my face and can't raise my right eyebrow. It makes me look super wry though, and thus shall henceforth be known as my wry-brow.
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<div><strong>The cherry on top of this stupid sundae: I'm experiencing something pretty devestating, called "brain sag."</strong>
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<div>Since I don't have enough spinal fluid to suspend my brain in my skull, it's resting on the bottom, crunching my neck and back, and giving me memory &amp; cognitive issues that researchers compare to <em>the early stages of dementia. </em>
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<div>With the gaping wounds in my spinal sleeve, recurring bacterial meningitis is a big fear, and there's about a 1 in 10 chance I'll croak in the next year if I don't get myself sealed and healed soon. (Gosh, that's surreal to say.)
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<div><strong>NOW THE GOOD NEWS!</strong>
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<div>There are only two surgeons in the country who specialize in treating this, and I've somehow managed to score surgical consults with both this August.
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<div>Unfortunately, they're both out of state, and once the procedures happen, I'm looking at a few months of healing from multi-level spinal surgery and the strictest bed rest this side o' The Mississippi.
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<div>As both the founder of a nonprofit, and sole proprietor of a copywriting studio in Denver for the last decade, my client work has had to be halted &amp; refunded until I can find my footing.
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<div>Being smart, sharp, creative, and strategic is how I make my money — and contribute to half of everything in our household. Now, my near-empty savings account could be the punchline to a bad joke.
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<div><em>"You hear the one about the girl with a crummy spine? She's more broke than her spinal sleeve! Har, har, har."</em>
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<div><strong>I'm looking for some help covering flights, astronomical surgery costs, and 2 - 3 months of required recovery time this fall.</strong>
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<div>As someone who's been paying my bills and working since age 14, it makes me exceptionally itchy to ask for a helping hand, and someone to hold mine right now.
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<div>But at the end of the day, I've never been this afraid — partly because I've had over 30 needles shoved into my spine so far, and partly cus I feel wildly exposed by speaking up and saying, "Hey, I'm actually really not okay."
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<div><strong>But hey. I'm actually really not okay. </strong>
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<div>Like, there's something to be said for having a hospital chaplain give you <em>The Talk</em> and ask which prayer you prefer cus you were admitted in such bad shape.
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<div>That something is: <strong><em>WTF</em></strong>.
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<div><strong>Is there any chance you're down to help me bridge the gap </strong>—<strong> so I can get back to kicking ass?</strong>
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<div>Either way, thanks for being here with me, m'dudes. I love you to the moon and back. And then all the way to the moon again. &lt;3
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<div>Jess
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Get Jess Some Sweet-Ass Spinal Surgery

<div>Dear friends and family,
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<div>Beautiful Nike Onile has passed.
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<div>A joyful and brilliant light in our lives, we are devastated by the loss of our strong, talented, and loving friend.
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<div>Thank you to everyone in Nike's community for reaching out with your words of love and support.
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<div>Donations to support Nike’s family with final expenses are welcome and deeply appreciated.
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<div>At a later date, we will be raising funds for a scholarship in Nike’s name.
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<div>"I have no words to properly express my gratitude for all of you for your love and continued support. You have taught me so much about trust and community, I am often left speechless by your unintentional lessons”. -Nike
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<div>With deep sadness and sorrow, we thank you.
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<div>Danielle, Shereen, and Sam.
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Beloved Nike Onile

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<div>On Friday, June 2, 2023, Ajike "Aj" Owens, a devoted and loving mother of four, was tragically and unjustifiably murdered in an attempt to protect her children from racism and violence. Her mother is now left to raise her grandchildren. AJ's story is chronicled in the Netflix documentary The Perfect Neighbor.  
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<div><strong>What Happened to AJ:</strong>
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<div>Ajike's children were playing in a field next to an Ocala apartment complex when an unidentified 58-year-old white woman reportedly began yelling at them and calling them racial slurs. The children left but accidentally left an iPad behind, which the woman took. When one of the children went to her residence to retrieve it, she threw it, hitting the boy and cracking the screen. After Ajike's children informed her of what happened, she walked across the street with her kids to speak with the woman. She knocked on the door, and at that point, the woman allegedly shot through the door, hitting Ajike, who later died from her injuries. The woman responsible has not yet been identified, arrested, or charged with anything by law enforcement.
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<div><strong>About AJ:</strong>
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<div>Ajike Owens (affectionately known as AJ) graciously affected all she came into contact with her infectious personality. She had a smile that would light up the room. But most of all, she was known for how much she loved and absolutely lived for her four children. To say she loved her children unconditionally is an understatement. She was a single mother whose life centered around her children. She was the Team Mom for her children’s football/cheerleading teams. She excelled professionally as a manager in the Restaurant/Hospitality industry. She was a devoted Christian who believed in bringing her kids up in a supportive Christian environment. After being a devoted mother, she was a devoted friend that took friendships to heart. There wasn’t anything that she wouldn’t do for those near and dear to her heart. She often would give to other single mothers that were in similar situations that she’d been in.
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<div><strong>How You Can Help:</strong>
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<div>1. Donate to this cause to support funeral and memorial expenses for AJ. (Goal Met)
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<div>2. Donate to contribute to AJ's children's education expenses.
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<div>3. Donate to contribute to Housing and all other living expenses for the family.
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<div><strong>Justice for AJ and So Many Others: The Fight to End Stand Your Ground: </strong>
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<div>In 2023, we witnessed the shooting of Ralph Yarl and the killing of Kaylin Gillis as instances where the Stand Your Ground doctrine has emboldened individuals to use unnecessary violent force in the name of self-defense. This is yet another instance where the law could potentially come into play and erode justice.
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<div>AJ's family has partnered with activists and national advocacy groups to effect change on a national scale.
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Justice for Ajike "AJ" Owens and Her Children

Fred needs help for Medical Treatment

<div>My dear, longtime friend Crystal and her husband, Paul, have suffered the unimaginable loss of their beautiful son PJ who passed away on January 31st.   PJ was just 5 years old and the brightest light and sweetest soul. He was the strongest, bravest child.  
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<div>If you know them, you know they have shown nothing but kindness and grace towards everyone who knows them, as well as having a determined fighting spirit for their son since the day he was born.
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<div>Now, we need to support them with the same kindness and grace.  They had tirelessly championed for their son's well-being during his short life, and I ask you to rally around them in their time of need. 
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<div>Please help support them, in any way possible, so they may give their beautiful little boy the send-off he deserves and enable both Crystal and Paul to take some needed time off so they're able to support one another.  
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PJ Reynafarje

<div><strong>WHAT HAPPENED TO TYRE</strong>
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<div>My name is RowVaughn Wells. I am the mother of Tyre Nichols. My son, Tyre Nichols, was pulled over for suspected “reckless driving” on January 7, 2023. There is no evidence to substantiate this claim. Further, police claim that my son left the scene on foot. It turns out that he was just trying to get to my house for safety -- which was only a few blocks away from where the incident happened. My baby was just trying to make it home to be safe in my arms. Tyre was unarmed, nonthreatening, and respectful to police during the entire encounter!
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<div><strong>BRUTALLY BEATEN BEYOND RECOGNITION</strong>
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<div>During my son's interaction with the police, they beat him beyond recognition until he became unconscious. He was then taken to a hospital and immediately placed on life support. He died 3 days later, but I believe that my son died on January 7th, the moment those 5 Black Memphis Police Officers pulled Tyre over and beat him to death for no good reason. His cousin who saw him in the hospital, swollen and disfigured, like “he was a scary monster.”
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<div><strong>WHERE THE INVESTIGATION STANDS</strong>
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<div>All 5 Officers have been fired, and charges ranging from Murder 2 to Kidnapping, have been filed against them. The video of Tyre's murder is set to be released any day now. I would like to warn everyone that the contents of the video are "horrific." However, I am asking people to protest in peace after its release. I don’t want us burning up our cities, and tearing up the streets because that’s not what my son stood for.
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<div><strong>ABOUT TYRE</strong>
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<div>Tyre Nichols was loved by his community and was known to be gentle, kind, and joyful. He loved skating and was originally from the Bay Area in California. He was known as someone “you know when he comes through the door he wants to give you a hug” and that “he wouldn’t hurt a fly.”
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<div>He had never been in trouble with the law, not even a parking ticket. He was an honest man, a wonderful son, and kind to everyone. He was quirky and true to himself, and his loss will be felt nationally.
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<div><strong>WE ARE SEEKING SUPPORT FOR OUR FAMILY AND TYRE'S MEMORIAL</strong>
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<div>My husband and I have had our entire world turned upside down by what happened to our son. We are two hardworking, loving parents, that now have to turn our full-time attention to seeking proper justice for our son, Tyre Nichols. In addition, we have yet to have the proper space to begin our grieving process, which will be long and burdensome. This fundraiser will help cover the costs of our mental health services. It will also cover time off from our 9-5 jobs because we do not have unlimited PTO. Additionally, we want to build a memorial skate park for Tyre, in honor of his love for skating and sunsets. &lt;3
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<div><strong>Note:</strong> Thank you to COMMUNITYx, a social network for change, and its CEO Chloe Sledd, who have helped our family create this fundraiser and bring greater justice to this issue.
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Tyre Nichols Memorial Fund

<div><strong>#StandWithDawn</strong>
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<div>Dawn Walker is an Indigenous woman, published author, playwright and community leader who has dedicated her life to telling the stories of First Nations people and has worked diligently to advance the rights and well-being of Indigenous women, families and communities.
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<div><strong>Now, she needs our help.</strong>
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<div><strong>#StandWithDawn</strong>
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<div>Many Indigenous women feel helpless within the current justice system and this is when they need strong support.
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<div><strong>We are respectfully asking you to stand with and support Dawn by contributing to her legal defense fund. We must protect our most vulnerable women and children.</strong>
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<div>Dawn has assigned her older sister, Patricia Dorion to be the beneficiary on her behalf to offset legal fees for her defense. Any surplus funds will be donated towards #MMIWG2S+ issues.
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<div><strong>#StandWithDawn</strong>
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Support Dawn Walker's Legal Defence Fund

<div>It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Armstrong. We lost Michael too soon, on April 16th. He leaves behind and is remembered by his three children, Elias, Freya, and Linnaea; co-parent Liz; his mother Karen; brother Sean; and many beloved friends and family members.
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<div>Everyone who knew Michael instantly felt his integrity, humour, and his passion for music, film, and local food. He brought all of these passions and qualities and his kindness and gentle presence to the many communities of which he was a part.
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<div>His children will feel the impact of his absence for many years to come. For this reason, we have set up this GoFundMe to create a fund for their futures and assist the family in covering the costs of the funeral and other expenses associated with this tragic loss.
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<div>With a deep love and appreciation for all help through this trying time.
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Michael Armstrong Memorial Fund

<div><strong style="font-family:inherit;font-size:1rem;"><span class="ql-cursor">﻿UPDATE ﻿</span></strong>
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<div>Hello everyone, I know it looks like I am almost to my goal but my funds are at 0 again, with rent payments and bills etc. Thank you for the continued help and support.
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<div><strong>Hello to those who have been kind enough to read my story.</strong>
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<div>Anything you would be willing to offer would be appreciated tremendously, as I want to maintain a safe environment for myself, but mostly, my son. We are in urgent need of help, so thank you so much for the support! If you can’t donate, sharing this link would be appreciated just as much. 
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<div><strong>ABOUT COURTNEY &amp; ATTICUS </strong>
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<div>My name is Courtney and I have a 10 year old son, Atticus. I am a single mother and I have been raising my son by myself for his whole life. It’s always just been the two of us, but I’ve been lucky enough to receive a place to stay from my grandmother for a few years now. I have an enormous Catholic, Mexican family, and have been considered the black sheep ever since I had my son (being an outwardly queer, leftist, young mother). My unemployment benefits have lapsed, and in addition to this, my food stamps have been cut off. Taking care of my son and helping my community are what means the most to me in this world, and I’ve been regularly helping out at the <a href="https://www.funkytownfridge.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Funkytown Fridge</a>
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<div>My son, Atticus, is 10 years old. I had to pull him out of school due to the ongoing pandemic, and thus have been helping him with distanced schooling while also trying to provide for us, as well as offering physical / home / medical support to my grandparents.
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<div><strong>ABOUT OUR SITUATION</strong>
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<div>I’m asking for help because I have found myself in a dangerous and very toxic situation at home. I’ve always been against asking for help, but today, I’m at my breaking point. My son and I have been living with my grandparents for a couple of years to help them out and allow my son to be close to his family. However, this situation has become too dangerous for us. My son and I are in need of immediate support in order to be relieved from the psychological abuse inflicted on me by my racist, right-wing, conservative family members. I have been harassed continuously to move out, but as a single mother in a pandemic with a son with a compromised immune system as well as severe asthma, I haven't had the funds to do so.
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<div>I have now been threatened numerous times for stating my views and supporting Black Lives Matter, as well as calling out certain members of my family for making racist comments and sharing disturbing views. Some family members have tried to force me out of the house, as well as corner me into having conversations I don't want to have. This has led to me being threatened with "consequences" for speaking out against them. I've also had multiple cousins and close relatives speak out against them as well, and they too have been alienated and tossed aside by the family. 
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<div>For the first time, I have been threatened to be physically harmed by one of my family members. My father has told me that I deserve it, and wouldn’t mind if I was beaten up. I have never had the support of my parents, and have been both physically and verbally abused. I have told these family members to please leave us alone numerous times, but they continue to invade our boundaries and have now threatened me with violence. Not only have I been threatened like this, but so has my younger sister who is a black single mother. She has been told she "needs her ass beat" as well as been called multiple derogatory terms involving how she dresses (she's a model), how she acts, and her skin color.
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<div>The relatives threatening me have access to the house I'm staying in, and it has gotten to the point to where I'm afraid for myself and my son. No matter how many times I state my boundaries, or try to deescalate the situation, I have been met with further harassment. They've had MULTIPLE family meetings about kicking me out, talked bad about my parenting, and have even made statements like this in a family group chat. This same family, whom I had asked to get tested for COVID before they came over for a get together (which I advised against entirely) not only didn't get tested, but ended up infecting us all with COVID- which we are still dealing with the after-effects of.
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<div>We want to move out of this house immediately so that we can have stronger boundaries to keep us safe from these people. We want to be able to continue to support my grandparents, but living under their roof is no longer a safe option. I want to raise my son in a safe and loving environment while being able to protect our health and well-being.
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<div><strong>OUR ASK FOR SUPPORT </strong>
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<div>Ultimately, we need housing, and we need to get away from this family. My mental health is rapidly declining whilst I am trying to raise my son in a safe environment. We are currently in search of low-income / income-based housing in Fort Worth, so my son can be close to his school (when they're able to return in person) so that we can stay connected to the community we care so much about. I am a big mutual aid supporter, so when I get back on my feet, I will continue to give back to the community. This is so important to me.
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<div>- <strong>securing housing</strong> (the goal is to move out in the next two weeks)
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<div>Safe housing for my son and I has been the goal ever since I moved back to Texas three years ago. <strong>I just need a safe, new start, and I need help getting there</strong>.
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<div><strong>Thank you so much for any support you offer. I really can’t express how grateful we are and how much we really value / admittedly need this support right now.</strong>
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Help Single Mother & Son Access Safe Housing

It all started with a tweet. Before we knew it, three Black women had come together to raise money to rescue Black lives, especially students, who were being discriminated against while trying to flee a wartorn Ukraine.<br /><br />The past several days of fundraising, liaising with students and volunteers, disbursing funds, and one of us trying to get out of Ukraine herself, have been hectic, frustrating, stressful but also energising to see way our community can come together to support and protect each other when the rest of the world refuses to do so.<br /><br />Through it all, we’ve worked hard to ensure that every pence we raise is accounted for and sent as quickly as possible to Black people in need that we have verified. In order to scale what we were doing, we knew we’d have to bring on more people, but that also meant more chances for issues to arise.<br /><br />Therefore, we've decided, for the sake of further transparency, accountability and due diligence, to make what we are doing even more official and so we would like to formally announce our new organisation: <strong>Black Women for Black Lives</strong>, or <strong>BW4BL</strong> for short.<br /><br />Having an official organisation, and more specifically a name and logo associated with what we are doing, will allow us to streamline our message and our work and ensure that there is no confusion about what we are doing and who we are doing it for. We also want to clarify that the work we’ve been doing and BW4BL is in no way associated with any other organisation soliciting for funds to help Africans and Afro-Carribeans in Ukraine. Any request for funds or proof of disbursing those funds have come from us and only us.<br /><br />We are working to expand the volunteer team and are also exploring partnerships that will help us scale the work we are doing, but as of now, no other organisations, handles, or individuals are able to speak on our behalf. All official statements and information will only be coming from the following handles:<br /><br />● Patricia Daley: @TRiiCiiAKANTREL on Twitter and @regina_x on IG<br />● Tokunbo Koiki: @toksyk27 on [email redacted]ki on IG<br />● Korrine Sky: @korrinesky on Twitter and @korrineskyy on IG<br />● Official handles: @BW4BL_official on Twitter and Instagram<br /><br />We will continue to remain transparent and keep you abreast of any developments. We truly appreciate all the support and amplification of this work over the last few days. We just want to make sure funds are getting to those who need it most in a timely and verifiable manner.<br /><br /><strong>Black Women For Black Lives ✊✊✊</strong><br /><br /><br />For enquiries or general information please email [email redacted] <br /><br />For press enquiries please email: [email redacted] <br /><br />Instagram | Twitter: @BW4BL_official

Support Black people fleeing Ukraine

<div>Many thanks to everyone who opened their hearts and helped us during our father's illness. He made it through the past year with his family at his side in large part thanks to your generosity. Now he is working on rebuilding his mobility and independence. He can't walk yet, but can use a wheelchair and stand with assistance. Recently he began to feel well enough to get back into reading, and has been plowing through paperback books. There are still frustrations and challenges ahead, but a good book, a good meal, and the love of family make it worth it—not to mention the profound kindness of strangers. Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts. xo
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Thank You So Much

<p>When Jesse Chamberlin Marble lost her long and grueling battle with b-cell lymphoma on June 5th, the world lost a one-of-a-kind, beautifully bright and creative soul. To know Jesse was to know the glow that radiated from her into the hearts of the people around her. She had the divine ability to make each person feel uniquely seen, loved, and immensely special. We, her friends and family, we’re lucky enough to live and share in that light.
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<p>Jesse is survived by her husband, Jimmy Marble, and their sweet daughter, Martha, 2, and her incredible sons, August, 10, and Gracyn, 14, whom she passionately and creatively co-parented with their father, Whitney Chamberlin.
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<p>With the strength of her family's love, Jesse fought for her life to the last day. Even when she was up against the toughest medical prognosis, she invested her whole self and exhausted every resource to remain alive and fully present for her children and family.
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<p>So many have asked how they can help the boys and this fund came to mind after many requests. We are a community which always cares for one another. Our goal here is to direct some of that care to Jesse’s boys while they heal. The boys need time with their family and the presence of their father in the face of the impossible loss of their mother. 
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<p>When Whitney lost his own mother as a child, his grandmother became his full-time caretaker. Her patience, sensitive dedication to his needs and embracing sense of love and home are ever-present as he steps into her shoes to do the same for Auggie and Gracyn.
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<p><span style="font-size:1.0625rem;">For the past few years, the boys have spent summers with their dad on a small farm in the Pacific Northwest. It has been a place of gentleness and sanctuary, as well as a familiar home-away-from-home. Deer regularly wander through, and eagles and otters are normal neighbors. With consideration for Gracyn’s request to be there now, we are working to facilitate their move. Both boys will navigate the transition back to in-person school this fall at the local small town schools. </span>
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<p><span style="font-size:1.0625rem;">Donations will be specifically applied to:</span>
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<p>⁃ Provide immediate means for part of Jesse’s surviving family to receive needed therapy and grief counseling.
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<p>⁃ Support the family’s transition to Washington state, to be closer as a family in a familiar environment.
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<p>⁃ Cultivate a home environment of stability to allow Auggie (10) &amp; Gracyn (14) the best opportunity possible to grieve and grow within a place of warmth, safety and a strong sense of home and belonging.
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<p>Thank you in advance for the love you have shared already and for the love we know you will continue to share with them while they face this challenging new chapter in their lives. Your care and tenderness for them has and will continue to make all the difference. Many hands make lightwork. Let’s lift these boys up ☀️
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New Beginning for the Boys

<strong>Xe Xe Smun'eem - Victoria Orange Shirt Day</strong> is an annual event in the City of Victoria to honor and recognize Residential School survivors. The event is held each Sept. 30th in Downtown Victoria. <br /><br />Victoria Orange Shirt Day was initiated in 2015 by Residential School survivor Eddy Charlie and his friend Kristin Spray while attending the Indigenous Studies program at Camuson College. Today, the event is attended by thousands of people from across the City of Victoria seeking to recognize the sacrifices of residential school survivors. <br /><br />Eddy and Kristin have made enormous contributions to the Orange Shirt Day movement. Together, they have volunteered tens of thousands of hours to raise awareness about residential schools, meeting with community groups, public officials, schools and anyone else interested in honoring survivors. Eddy and Kristin also order and distribute orange shirts to members of the community looking to participate in Orange Shirt Day. All of these costs are presently covered out-of-pocket.<br /><br />Contributions to this GoFundMe campaign will directly support Eddy and Kristin in this important work. This includes covering the costs of shirts, speaking engagements, travel, honoraria and other costs currently covered out of pocket. <br /><br />For more information, or to order an Orange Shirt, please visit victoriaorangeshirtday.com.

Xe Xe Smun'eem - Victoria Orange Shirt Day

Steel Smiling Champion!We hope you're safe and well. Thanks for helping us bridge the gap between Black community members and mental health support through education, advocacy, and awareness. Our 10-year vision is to connect 100% of Black adults in Pittsburgh to 1 mental health engagement that improves their Quality of Life by 2030. With your generous support, we hope to accomplish this together. 2019 was our best year yet and we couldn't have done it without your willingness to be present with us. In 2020, we're going to continue growing as a result of our amazing people, programming, and partnerships. In 2019, we successfully re-launched our Black Mental Health Workforce Development program (Beams to Bridges). A cohort of 23  community members participated in educational sessions, learned from mental health professionals of color, and had ongoing opportunities to practice teaching with their peers. The program's purpose is to develop an informed, confident, and diverse group of mental health liaisons who will support our community’s collective healing process. In 2018, we connected with thousands of people through our service efforts. We hit the streets, listened to stories from everyday community members, and collaboratively referred them to clinical treatment providers. For Mental Health Awareness Month, we convened over 100 people to participate in free mental health trainings and educational experiences. In September, we brought provider agencies, leaders, and others together to share conversations about suicide awareness, mental wellness, and best practices. We ended the year with our 3rd Birthday Party and Celebration. At this experience, community members participated in wellness activities and heard intimate stories from their peers about recovery. We've had the privilege of collaborating with many phenomenal companies and organizations. Here are some of the partners who’ve helped us fulfill our mission since 2015: the Mary Jennings Hillman Foundation, UPMC, ONYX Therapy Group, University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, The Rock Family Foundation, the Program to Aid Citizen Enterprise (PACE), the POISE Foundation, Voices Against Violence, Mindscapes, PublicSource, Allegheny HealthChoices, Inc. (AHCI), Allegheny County Health Department, Ascender, BMe, Community Care Behavioral Health Organization (CCBHO), Department of Human Services (DHS), Duquesne University, University of Pittsburgh Department of Psychiatry, IOBY, Environmental Charter School, Inside Our Minds, Edgar Snyder &amp; Associates, Carnegie Mellon University Institute for Software Research, Jeron X Grayson Community Center, The Center That Cares, The Pittsburgh Foundation, The Staunton Farm Foundation, The Opportunity Fund, UPMC Health Plan, Neighborhood Allies, The UrbanKind Institute, BOOM Concepts, Adaptive Behavioral Services, Mercy Behavioral Health, Coro Pittsburgh, Public Allies Pittsburgh, PULSE Pittsburgh, Repair the World, Young Lungs Motivation, Eminent Hospitality Solutions, LLC, Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association, Vitamin C Healing, Handinhand Counseling Services, LLC, Vision Toward Peace Counseling, LLC, and the Ujamaa Collective.Please consider making your financial donation today. The mental health and wellness of our communities depend on your continued generosity. We truly appreciate your commitment to serving our Black neighbors with us. In solidarity,Your Family at Steel Smilingsteelsmilingpgh.orgSteel Smiling is fiscally sponsored by Neighborhood Allies Inc. Neighborhood Allies is a 501(c)3 organization and was formerly referred to as DBA Pittsburgh Partnership for Neighborhood Development, and may still be listed as such on software platforms with outdated information. Neighborhood Allies’ EIN # is 25-1578436.*An acknowledgement of your donation will be submitted to you via email within 3-5 business days.*

The Black Mental Health Fund

Marsha Shandur

<div>Top-line info: Alazar Beyene's 50 year old patching machine has died, and we want to buy him a new one.
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<div><strong>*update:  funds we raise above the goal are split between Alazar and Maquila Solidarity Network, a charity that supports the rights of workers in the global garment and footwear industries: <a href="http://maquilasolidarity.org" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">http://maquilasolidarity.org</a>*</strong>
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<div>When I recently brought in my winter boots to be reheeled, I asked, "I think the zipper is about to go — can you give me a new one?"
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<div>Shaking his head, Alazar told me, "I can mend the sole, but I can't fix the zipper. My patching machine is broken, and to buy a new one will cost ten thousand dollars."
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<div>I knew something had to be done.
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<div>Alazar Beyene has been keeping the Dufferin Grove community shod for over 23 years. If you've ever had a hole in your shoe, needed new soles or a watch battery, had keys cut or reheeled your favourite pumps, you'll know his skill is beyond all measure and his charm makes it a pleasure to visit him!
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<div>Recently, his patching and stitching machine — a beast that is over half a century old — broke. After consulting the suppliers (Landis), he was told that the parts to repair it no longer exist, and he needs to buy a new one for $10,000 (see pic), plus HST + more for the stand (see update).
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<div>Without it, Alazar is limited in his cobbling. The machine is used for things like:
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<li>stitching handbags
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<li>putting new zippers on boots
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<li>Changing buckles and elastic on sandals
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<li>And any stitching and patching jobs.
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<div>As his community, we want to support Alazar to say thank you for all he's done for us. Any donations towards our goal of $10,000 (which will cover most, though not all, of the price +HST) are gratefully received. Please share this with others in our community!
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<div>Thank you, Alazar, for keeping our shoes beautiful and our keys plentiful. And thank you to YOU for donating and sharing!
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<div><strong>PS wanna know who I am?? </strong>I'm Marsha, a Storytelling and Persuasive Communications Coach and Trainer in Toronto. I coach speakers and run workshops for companies on Storytelling, Ethically Persuasive Communication and Writing Effective Presentations -- more here: yesyesmarsha.com
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<div>I also run Toronto's largest and longest-running true storytelling show, True Stories Told Live Toronto at The Garrison. More at truestoriestoronto.com
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<div>You can also find both me and Alazar on Instagram and TikTok.
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<div>He's @alazarthecobler on insta and @alazarthecobbler on TT, and I'm @yesyesmarsha on both. See you over there!
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<div>Thanks for reading! :)
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Buy Alazar a New Patching Machine!

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Marsha Shandur

Marsha Shandur

What they care about

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About me