Help Kaleia and Jem Secure housing

Dear community,

I’m writing on behalf of my beloved friend and housemate Kaleia and myself to ask for your support as we search and move towards a more stable and peaceful home after a year of major upheaval.

A brief introduction for those who don’t know us— Kaleia (she/her) is a black, disabled SF native who has lived in Berkeley for the last two years. Kaleia is a fun loving libra who would rather be spending her time reading a good book, writing an evocative poem, or gifting her loved ones with her presence. She has been navigating housing instability in the Bay Area all of her adult life.

I am Jem (they/them) a white fat disabled human born in San Jose, and resident of the Bay Area for the last 5 years. I am a dreamy pisces wishing I could just be at a beach, petting a dog, and listening to my loved ones laugh. I am estranged from bio family but like many queers before me, I have found great love and community in friends that have buoyed me through some hard times.

This last year has truly been a hard time for both Kaleia and I, and we are hoping that this community can offer some support to us both.

Like many folks, I lost my job in 2020—subsequently losing my health insurance and income. I then began struggling with my breathing and mobility after fire season brought hazardous air in September 2020. After getting on Covered CA in November 2020 and many trial and error treatments done remotely—I eventually was hospitalized in March 2021. At that time doctors discovered that I had a pulmonary embolism, which impacts my ability to breathe and move around freely. I went to the ER for a second time last month after I experienced multiple fainting episodes at home. After being hospitalized for a second time for pulmonary hypertension, and after a consult with a cardiologist, I will be heading to San Diego for more treatment and likely a major surgery to remove the blood clots.

Through all this, Kaleia has been navigating multiple personal losses, while offering all she can in terms of care for me. She and I are both unemployed, in the process of getting on disability, and without financial backup.

As of late, we are at risk of being evicted, got scammed out of $1,100 for new housing, and have medical debt accruing. We are in need of some major support—if not just in need of time to rest and just be in a comfy home.

These funds will help cover moving costs, first and last month’s rent, and basic needs like food and utilities. We are hoping to raise enough money to find and move into a new home by the end of June.

Thank you for reading and thank you for any support you can offer! Anything helps