Help Our Family Find Stability Amid Crisis

My name is Steven Bates, and I'm currently receiving disability support from the Canadian government, living on an annual income of approximately $22,000. Life has always had its challenges, but this year, my family is facing circumstances that have left us with few options, and I’m asking for help in our time of need.

I’m a full-time caregiver to my 13-year-old son, Vincent, who has been diagnosed with terminal Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This progressive disease has severely limited his ability to move, and I am his primary caregiver—helping him with everything from using the bathroom to accessing our home and vehicle. Due to Vincent’s condition, I’m unable to work a traditional job because he needs constant support, and his care is my full-time responsibility.

I also have an 11-year-old son, Dexter, and while his spirit is strong, he can be a handful as he deals with the complexities of growing up with a sibling who requires so much attention. My ex-partner, Samantha, who is responsible for the funds associated with the campaign, also lives with us, and though we are no longer together, we remain good friends and do our best to support our boys.

Our situation became even more dire when In

we were informed that we have only six months to find a new place to live. My current income as a recipient of disability support makes it difficult to afford housing in today’s market, especially given the specific needs of my son, Vincent, who requires constant care. This leaves me, Vincent, my younger son Dexter, and their mother, Samantha, who helps care for the boys, in urgent need of a new home..

With the current state of the housing market in Ontario, finding an affordable and accessible place for Vincent has been incredibly difficult. Rents have skyrocketed, and as someone living on disability, my income is not enough to cover the rising costs. I’m urgently seeking assistance to cover the initial expenses of moving, including first and last month’s rent, security deposits, and any adjustments we need to make our new home accessible for Vincent.

In addition to our housing crisis, Vincent’s care is ongoing and expensive. From medical equipment to transportation to frequent appointments, his needs are extensive, and any disruption to his care could be devastating. Moving to a new location also means we need to ensure that his access to healthcare providers remains intact.

As someone who has struggled with clinical depression, ADHD, and feelings of inferiority, asking for help feels incredibly difficult. But right now, I need to put my pride aside for the sake of my children and our family.

We are urgently looking to raise enough funds to find new housing, ensure Vincent continues to receive the care he needs, and stabilize our situation. Every dollar will go towards securing a safe place for us to live and covering the immediate costs that my family is struggling with.

If you’re able to support us—whether financially or by sharing this campaign—we would be forever grateful.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story.

Regards: Steven Bates