Hello friends!
Moving to the pacific northwest has been an amazing adventure as well as confirmation that my inner guidance was right, I will be able to better manage my disabilities and access healthcare and sustainable work as a queer careworker and community tender in the Portland area. The healthcare and housing are secured! I rent a room from a lovely trans couple in Gresham Butte (east of Portland) and have Medicaid and SNAP Food benefits. I’ve even started the process for a workforce scholarship to get the required Oregon Traditional Healthworker doula certification that will qualify me to work with doula organizations here for low income families on Medicaid. That is very exciting as a former Medicaid Momma!
The only hiccup in my plan has been how difficult it has been to find flexible work while I launch my doula business. Regulations, insurance coverage, etc. are a little different than in Texas so it will take me a few months before doula client work can cover my living and transportation costs fully. While I continue seeking flexible side gig jobs and going to weekly doctor visits I am reaching out to my community for assistance. All my saved funds are exhausted and this next cycle of rent I cannot cover. I have $270 left in my checking account and the first of the month looms..
I am asking for help to cover my September bills: the most immediate need is rent of $750 on September 1st. Any additional funds I receive will be applied to the following fall costs in order of priority:
Transportation (care note/insurance/gas)
Business Expenses (Liability Insurance/phone/internet)
LLC start up costs
Fun foods or relaxing activities to manage my mental/social health needs
I know that money is tight for so many of us, and I know that while a desire to support may be there, you may not have the access to give much. Please know that I understand that circumstance fully and notes or texts of encouragement are also welcome! If you have the capacity to contribute money I am very grateful for however much you may be able to donate. It does really add up and it will be integral to the collective support that will keep me secure and safe in housing that I can continue to heal and find new paths forward. Thank you so much for your continued support and love as I move forward with a bold heart and a deep well of wisdom into this new chapter.
Warmly,
Chrys the Doula
