Manu’s mother has lost a significant part of her sight, but she still knows her way around the council flat in Budapest where she has lived for decades. Now they may lose this home.

There are times when you do everything you can, but it still doesn’t work out. You work, you save, you ask for help – but the net has holes in it.

Manu and her mum now find themselves in just such a situation.

Manu is one of my best friends. She lives with her mum in a council flat in Budapest, which has been their home for many decades.

Manu’s mum worked in the hospitality industry for years, bringing up her little girl on her own, whilst also supporting her sister and her parents.

She was recently diagnosed with a serious eye condition and has lost a significant portion of her sight. In her day-to-day life, she can now only see to a limited extent. That is why this flat is now much more to her than just four walls. It is the place she knows. She knows where everything is, she is familiar with her surroundings, and her daughter is here with her to help.

Meanwhile, the rent for the council flat has risen, and their home is now under threat: they have received a warning letter regarding rent arrears, which mentions the possibility of eviction.

Manu works full-time, doing three shifts. For years, she has been trying to provide for the two of them and cover their day-to-day expenses. The monthly rent for the flat is currently 120,000 forints – more than her mother’s entire monthly pension.

For a long time, they managed to make ends meet, albeit with difficulty. Then, recently, too many unexpected expenses came at once.

And they ran out of financial leeway.

They currently owe 327,000 Ft in rent arrears. And on 1 October, another monthly rent payment of 120,000 Ft will become due. Whilst Manu is still trying to clear the previous arrears, the burden of the next month’s rent is already looming.

By the start of October, therefore, he would need to raise 447,000 Ft just to sort out his housing situation.

Manu has tried to find a solution. He’s working, he’s asked for help, and he’s tried to settle the debt. But he’s now reached the point where he can no longer make up the shortfall quickly enough on his own.

And in the meantime, there’s someone else he’s worried about.

Jake. 🐾

Jake is a 14-and-a-half-year-old pug whom Manu adopted when he was six years old. He’s been part of the family for eight years. He’s not just a dog, but the little old lad who’s been with them through thick and thin.

Now he’s ill too.

He needs further tests and veterinary care, the estimated cost of which is around 200,000–300,000 forints. Manu is currently forced to put these off because he has to choose between housing costs and veterinary expenses.

That is why I have launched this fundraising campaign.

Not so that others can sort out their lives for them.

But to give them a little time.

A bit of breathing space.

Just enough for Manu to clear the accumulated rent arrears, pay next month’s rent, take Jake for the necessary check-ups, and ensure that everything doesn’t start all over again in a few weeks’ time.

We’re trying to keep a home right now.

Thank you for helping them. ❤️

Enikő

I, Enikő, am organising this fundraiser as Manuéla’s friend, with Manuéla and her mother’s knowledge and consent.

Veterinary bills: