I am seeking temporary assistance to stabilize my essential living expenses. I have lived in my home for fourteen years and have never missed a month of rent. Although I have been late at times, I have never skipped a payment. Unfortunately, a series of family medical crises has created a level of strain that no single person could reasonably carry alone.
I recently became unemployed and am now the primary support for several family members. My disabled son and my daughter, who is undergoing cancer treatment, both live with me. My grandson is staying with me through August. I also provide regular assistance to my stepfather, who is seventy‑nine, living with leukemia, and struggling because his Social Security income is not enough to cover his rent. He receives minimal food assistance and can no longer meet his basic needs. These responsibilities are not optional; they are matters of safety, health, and survival for the people who depend on me. Unfortunately, I am all the family they have. The strain has been immense, but I do what I must to keep everyone stable.
My monthly expenses have become overwhelming. My rent is $1,350, and with the late fee of $133, the total for July is $1,500. My electric bill is $400, even though we are not using excessive electricity. My car insurance is $260, which is essential because my daughter needs transportation to and from her medical appointments. We also need food. My grandson needs pull‑ups, and because he has severe sensitive skin and eczema, he requires special body wash and his clothes must be washed in sensitive‑skin detergents. My daughter’s diet is different from everyone else’s due to her treatment, so she needs more fruits and vegetables. I have been able to support everyone, but last month my job ended when school let out, and my income stopped.
To make matters worse, our electricity was disconnected. Because of the extreme heat, the money I had set aside for rent had to go toward getting the lights turned back on. I tried to get help from various agencies, but no assistance was provided. I know everyone is having a tough time, and I feel terrible being in this situation.
Despite everything, I continue to uphold my obligations as best I can. I am not asking for ongoing support, and asking for any help at all is extremely difficult for me. I have done everything I can to find assistance, but it has been like searching for a unicorn. Every place I have reached out to has been unable to help. I have never done anything like this before, and I know it is a long shot, but I am hoping it will relieve some of the stress I am under.
