Family in need of Financial Assistance

Hi, my name is Claribel Baez (aka Bela). I am reaching out in hopes that you can find it in your heart to assist my family during these difficult times. Since 2015 I have been an employee at NYC Department of Corrections providing counseling services on Rikers Island. As of January 2023, due to being on medical leave, I have been denied payment. I was a victim of sexual assault and have been working tirelessly with medical professionals to overcome the traumatic event. My worker's compensation extends for another six months. As per Riker's HR department, the remainder of my leave only includes medical benefits. I am appreciative of having medical insurance for myself and my family; especially during these times. I was the main breadwinner of my family and as of January 6th of this month, I no longer have the income to support our household expenses. My husband, Jessie Matias, who also works, covers certain bills. We are having a difficult time coming up with a plan to cover the expenses I managed. These include rent, utility bills, medical expenses (co-payments etc), life insurance, our children's extracurricular activities, and groceries. I have reached out to a few pantries to be able to get food and we have been lucky to have community members who have been able to spare some food this month. In the meantime, we are looking for assistance until I can return to work in June 2023. As a mother, the last thing I want is for my children: Adrian 15yo and Elias 9yo, to be affected by this change. We hope to transition them slowly into the reality that we no longer have the funds for them to continue their paid extracurriculars, and allowance. In the meantime, I am looking for free programs in martial arts, art and soccer; any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Elias who had been struggling with being bullied has gained so much confidence through their martial arts training. More recently Elias has shown interest in Acting. Adrian who is a wonderful artist had been receiving a weekly allowance to cover his wants/needs. Adrian attends the High School of Fashion Industries. Unfortunately, I can no longer provide him with income. I was teaching him how to manage his money and be self-sufficient. Adrian was saving up to buy an electric bike. My heart is broken and I do not know where to turn for help. I have a difficult time asking for help as I have been actively employed since I was 9 years old and have always managed to care for myself and my family. In the meantime, I have applied for an apprenticeship at an herbalism school to further my education. I received notice that I was accepted on January 10th. A few short days after receiving the news that I will no longer have income. I am in constant search of career development opportunities and hope that in these next few months, I can focus my energies on that development. The apprenticeship costs a total of $6500. A deposit of $1000 is due on February 10th; evidently, that is the same day that Jessie and I celebrate 17 years in a relationship. The sessions begin on March 8th, 2023. This apprenticeship will further my healing journey as well as foster opportunities to serve my community and beyond. My monthly responsibilities were $3000 for rent along with the other household expenses; this came to $5000 monthly. I am unable to take on a full-time job at the moment due to my medical leave. We require assistance for $30,000 to cover my portion. Jessie covers car loans/payments, phone bills, internet, personal loans, and credit card expenses. Jessie is in the process of looking for at-home work (i.e. tech assistance, telemarking, graphic design, phone operator etc); if you have recommendations on work he can do in the meantime to help increase our income it would be greatly appreciated. He has been applying tirelessly for some time to no avail. I have been sitting with this ask for 3 weeks now. As the end of the month approaches my anxiety increases. I have $4000 in my savings which I have been tapping into for this month's expenses and I worry that we will be without shelter, food and necessities in a week. My fears come from a place of knowing. I grew up in poverty; Many times we were without food and have been displaced several times including living on the streets and in the shelter system. The intuitive part of me knows that it will not come to that. However, my anxiety has a messed up way of tricking me into believing that my childhood sorrows/traumas will somehow be a reality for my children. I have always worked very hard to ensure they have a healthy childhood. This ask feels like a very large burden to put on anyone and I hope that with the help from family, friends and community (known and extended) we will be able to survive these next few months with some dignity and strength to move forward. Jessie, Adrian, Elias and I would appreciate any help you can spare. We understand that during this financial crisis, money may not be a possibility; we accept any help possible with gratitude. For anyone who can donate $100 or more, we will happily send handwritten notes of appreciation. Additionally, I am also available for Reiki (Chakra clearing/alignment) sessions and Tarot readings and you can reach me on IG @_tittytarot to schedule a session. These offerings can be done virtually or in person. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your help! We love you!