Start Over. East Palestine Resident

Hello,

My name is Ashley McCollum. I have lived in East Palestine for 9 years, 1 of those years has been spent relocated. After having tests done on my home and seeing others tests, it’s not safe for my family return. I become sick shortly after entering my home. After speaking with many different people it’s not safe for us. The town needs so much more testing.

 Leaving everything behind is hard. Many say just leave but it’s not that simple. This is extremely emotional to start over and not have the means to do so. My home in East Palestine was supposed to be in my family for ever.

We need a new home. We spent all of last year’s holiday relocated. We are still relocated. After my boyfriend Matthew McAnlis lost his job due to medical reasons believed to be linked town, it’s hard to find housing now. He’s working so hard to get back to work. I am also experiencing health issues and have twitching in fingers and toes. We never expected any of this. 

UPDATE: Relocation ended February 9th, 2024. We will be responsible for paying our hotel cost as well until we know for sure if NS can give us an extension. 

I’m terrified to return back home with all the information I have found over this time. I feel like my family and I are financial prisoner to this situation we did not create. Any thing helps. Please share this and look at other residents. So many need help from East Palestine. 

Thank you,

Ashley McCollum & Family