Support Lori's Journey Back to Stability

I'm Lori, I'm a feisty old broad who now finds myself in financial need but never thought it would happen to me. I lost my job and I'm trying desperately to keep from being evicted. I need to raise November's rent & late fee plus gas to go to job training.

I've worked happily for over half a century, but am struggling. Even with a full-time job, being a widow and trying to cover rent along with everything else can be difficult. It's certainly harder when you are older, unless you have extensive higher-position experience in higher-income fields. I'm temporarily unable to cover my bills. I was hospitalized last May, had to be intubated (not Covid), and that drained everything, even with insurance.

I'm a widow, and going from two full-time incomes to one to none is more difficult than I could ever imagine. I lost my oldest son due to a hit-and-run driver. He was a Marine who was trying to work through PTSD. It's heartbreaking to know he came back safely from Iraq but was killed trying to walk to the store. He and I took turns helping each other out when things got tough sometimes. In addition, I was advised that I'm not able to draw my late sweet husband's Social Security again until I repay the overage when I changed from part-time to full-time. I'm very glad I did, but boy, getting punished for working more like I should sure is a kick in the hiney.

Yes, it's absolutely embarrassing, but I am doing everything I can to get things back on track. I know that there are people in the world who have things much harder.

I'm waiting to find out whether I will qualify for unemployment. I did qualify for a one-time power bill assistance, so my electricity will stay on as long as I don't get evicted. I have been able to qualify for food assistance. I'm also reaching out for assistance with rent, but have not been successful yet with area agencies & churches. The funds are not available from any agency or church I've contacted.

*My car's gas tank is at below a third of a tank. I need gas to be able to go donate plasma, to follow up in person for job applications and to go the area food pantry.

*I am desperately trying to afford my medicines. I applied for Medicaid but do not qualify.

*I don't have the amount for November rent, which is $1100/month.

* I hope to pay $150 to keep the internet from being disconnected, to manage my job searches, applications and resumes going out, but at this point the RENT is my priority.

I donate blood plasma to buy groceries and gas. I have no more retirement left, so bills are piling up. My car is paid off (YAY!) but needs registration updated and some repairs, but that's taking a back seat. I'm scrambling to keep the internet on. Being without a job is especially tough when I'm used to going full throttle every day and being able to do my part in being productive and helpful. I'm used to helping, not asking. Could this get any more awkward? With me, yes, but I'm grateful you've taken the time to hear me. We're all connected, much more than we realize.

I am determined to get out of this hole and contribute as much as I can, in as many ways as I can, to help make things better for everyone. I'm fighting to be a productive, if cantankerous, co-conspirator of daily shenanigans & mighty member of our highly interesting times.