Hello everyone,

My name is Emily and I am 19 years old. I am writing this because I am in a critical situation and desperately need a fresh start. By the end of August, I need to relocate to another city where the cost of apartments are lower, to escape a toxic environment at home and build a safe, independent life. I have also been accepted into a part-time (weekend) university program there, which I am determined to pay for myself.

To be completely honest, my relationship with my parents is deeply broken. I cannot count on their support, and asking them for help is not an option for my own safety and mental health. I want to work, study, and stand on my own two feet, but starting from absolute zero with no family backing is incredibly hard. (Before anyone asks, other family members provide money occsionally, like on ny birthday, saying my parents are responsible for giving me money)

My biggest barrier right now is the initial cost of moving. The job market is extremely tough at the moment, and despite constantly applying, I haven't been able to secure a job yet. Landlords require a deposit plus the first month’s rent upfront, and since I am cutting ties with my family, I have no one to help me cover this or act as a guarantor.

I am trying to raise approx. $850 to act as my starting funds. Here is exactly how the money will be used:

* **First Month’s Rent & Deposit:** To secure a safe room from a private owner without needing my parents' signatures.

* **Basic Survival:** Food, public transport, and essentials for the first few weeks while I look for work on the spot.

* **College Prep:** Helping me stay afloat as I prepare for my upcoming tuition payments.

I am not looking for a handout for life—I am a hardworking person who just needs a one-time stepping stone to get out of a bad house and begin a new chapter. Any financial help, no matter how small, would mean the absolute world to me and give me the safe start I desperately need.

Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for reading my story and for any support you can provide.🩷