Soap Shop Supplies, Fees, & Etc.

In July of 2014, the company I'd worked at for six-and-a-half years downsized.  My position was one of several eliminated.  I have social anxiety, and knew job hunting would spike my anxiety levels beyond what I could handle.

I'd been making soaps and lip balms as a hobby for several years, and decided this was the time to start an Etsy shop.  I got out my supplies and started making things.  I set up my Etsy shop ; I started a Facebook page  for the shop; I promoted my items on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and Google+.


(Various lip balm flavors waiting for purchase)

My unemployment checks weren't a lot, but some weeks, they were the difference between having food and electric, and not having it that week.  I thought I qualified for a year of unemployment, but last week, I received a letter informing me my last benefit had been paid.

The shop was doing okay; I had some sales in November, and several more in December, but come January, I didn't have one sale.  None.  Most of my income in November and December went to supplies, shipping, and fees.  I had a popular "Free Sample Friday" feature on my Facebook page, but had to end it.  Shipping on the prizes was starting to outpace the income I was getting from the shop.


(What my friends have dubbed "Soaphenge")

I'm asking for $1000 to help me with soap and lip balm ingredients, containers, labels, shipping supplies, postage, fees, and advertising.  


(Bath salts and unlabeled lip balms)


(Some of my tools and supplies)

2/26 update: I've been able to make more soaps, and I have a multi-bar soap cutter on its way.  I should be able to list more soaps in the shop starting next week.  I still need about $200 to fully restock, as now I'm running out of lip balm supplies (tubes, mainly).

Thanks to anyone who can donate even a tiny amount.  I really appreciate any help I can get.  Thank you.