I'm raising money for a laptop so I can go to school and search for employment**.

Why I'm using HandUp for a laptop.

I'm searching for employment and also attending workshops on how to program and code at the PRC. I have been working temp positions and they email me when there is an open position. It's difficult for me to access my email. Right now, I go to the library to use the computer and there is a limit of one hour. Sometimes I have to wait 2-3 hours just to use the computer. If I had access to computer at home, I could search for employment from home and check my email for temp positions. I could get WiFi for $10 a month in my SRO in the Tenderloin.

** NOTE TO DONORS: We value your donations, and respect your intention to support people in need with their specific fundraising goals. On occasion, the immediate needs or an emergency may arise, and a Participant might require support in another way for safety, health, housing, or employment. As such, your donation may be used for an immediate basic need not mentioned in the above goal, such as groceries, health costs, or housing support. Any changes will always be approved in advance by PHC Staff. We will provide up to date information on how these funds are being used through an update on HandUp. By making a donation to this campaign, you are confirming your approval of this potential change. If you have any questions, or do not wish that your donation be used for any alternative goals, please contact PHC staff directly.

We greatly appreciate your support to our Participants!

About me.

I'm from San Francisco and lived here all my life. I've worked for UPS for 22 years and was let go through a lawsuit problem that I won and was retaliated for 10 years later. I've been homeless for 4 years now. I lost my house in 2005. I spend my time going to the library, the park, and looking for temporary work.

My backstory.

I have back problems and neck problems from working at UPS. Also, my left knee is injured. I've seen a psychiatrist since 1995 due to the lawsuit that took 5 years and ended in 2000, with a total amount of $6,000 in winnings.

I lived with my grandmother most of my life, and was the only one of 7 who graduated and went through college. My family can't support me now because they were never a part of my life.

After I lost my house in 2006, I lived with a friend in the Fillmore District. Then due to gentrification, they sold their building, leaving me homeless.

My goals, moving forward.

My goal is to go back to school to be a chef since I love to cook. When I was 19 I had a job at the Sheraton Hotel at Fisherman's Wharf. I started washing dishes and became a Junior Chef at 19. I have always wanted to go back to that. Another goal is to get my teeth fixed. My third goal is to move to Sacramento to be closer to my daughter and my 11 year old granddaughter.

Other things I'd like to share about myself.

Too often I'm stereotyped and racially profiled. I moved away from Vallejo due to the constant police harassment. Playing my bass guitar makes me happiest. It's currently in a pawnshop, and I'm trying to get it out.