The Job Is Gone, the Rent Is Due, and I'm Still Trying

This is the hardest post I’ve ever had to write.

Earlier this year, I lost my job. I was working as a 1099 contractor, and like many independent workers, I didn’t have the safety net of unemployment benefits or severance. The contract ended, and so did my income. Just like that.

Since then, I’ve been applying for jobs every single day. Updating my resume. Writing cover letters. Submitting applications. Reaching out to recruiters. Following up. Hoping. Hustling. But the job market hasn’t been kind. It’s quiet. And I’m still waiting for that yes.

In the meantime, my savings have dried up. My bills haven’t. Rent is due. Groceries need to be bought. The lights have to stay on. And now, I’m in a position I never wanted to be in. I’m trying to stay housed while fighting to stay hopeful.

I’ve applied for every kind of assistance I could find. Rental help. Emergency grants. Local nonprofits. Community programs. Most are closed, at capacity, or out of funding. Some told me to try again next month. Others just said, “Sorry.” I’ve hit every wall I know how to hit. And I’m tired.

This isn’t easy for me to share. I’ve always been independent. I’ve always figured it out. But right now, I’m in a moment where I can’t do it alone. So here I am, asking for help and trusting that someone out there will hear me.

If you're able to contribute, I’ve included ways to do so below. Your support will go directly toward keeping a roof over my head and giving me a bit more breathing room while I continue to search for work. Even a few dollars means the world to me right now. And if you can't give, sharing this post helps too. You never know who might see it.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. Even in silence.

Cash App: $shereignskali
Venmo: @shereignskali
PayPal: paypal.me/SheReignsKali

Until next time… Les ✨