My name is Kenneth, and I’m asking for help during a difficult financial period that has put my family’s housing and stability at risk.
My fiancée and I recently welcomed our sixth child, a son, making us a household of eight — two adults and six children. My main priority is keeping a stable roof over my family’s head and making sure my children have what they need.
Right now, I’m four months behind on rent, but rent is only one part of what has brought us to this point.
Transportation has become one of my biggest setbacks. My car was totaled. After that, I relied on a moped to keep moving, but the motor went out on it. I even started using an electric scooter to get where I needed to go, and eventually that broke down too.
I mention those things because I want people to understand that I have been trying. I have walked, taken buses, paid for Ubers when I could afford them, used a moped, and even used an electric scooter because sitting still was never an option for me.
Every time one way of getting around stopped working, I found another way to keep going.
The problem is not only the cost of transportation. It is also the time and uncertainty that comes with depending on rides from other people or public transportation that may not always be dependable. A missed ride, long wait, or multiple bus transfers can turn into a missed job opportunity, appointment, or important responsibility for my family.
Uber helps when I can afford it, but those costs add up quickly and take money away from rent, food, bills, and other necessities.
I am actively trying to get back to steady employment. I have professional training, certifications, skills, and work experience, but my background has created barriers with many employers. I have found myself qualified for opportunities but unable to fully use the credentials and experience I have worked hard to earn.
I do not use my past as an excuse. I continue to apply for jobs, follow up with employers, look for better opportunities, and do whatever I can to provide for my family.
Asking for financial help is not something I wanted to do. I take pride in figuring things out for myself, and I have tried multiple ways to keep pushing forward before reaching this point.
This fundraiser is a last resort for me, not a first choice.
I am not asking anyone to carry me. I am asking for help getting through this gap so I can catch up on rent, regain reliable transportation, return to steady employment, and give my family some stability again.
Funds raised will help with catching up on rent and keeping my family housed, transportation while I work toward something dependable again, basic household and family necessities, and expenses connected to finding and maintaining steady employment.
My goal is not just to survive one bill or one week. I am trying to rebuild enough stability that I can take care of these responsibilities on my own again.
I know everyone has their own struggles, and I do not expect anyone to give what they cannot afford. Any amount helps, and simply sharing this fundraiser with someone else can make a difference too.
Thank you for taking the time to read our story, share it, encourage us, or help in any way.
I am not giving up. I just need a little help getting back on my feet so I can keep moving forward for my family.
— Kenneth