I'm raising money for basic needs so I can have a permanent mailing address.

Why I'm using HandUp for my basic needs.

I haven't had a permanent address in 3 years. I have been receiving mail here, there, and everywhere. I've used many different social services agencies, but I want to have a more reliable and permanent place to receive mail. I receive a lot of important documents through the mail. My daughter is also going to Italy for four years in the Army and I want to have a safe place to receive her letters.

About me.

I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts and then came over to Santa Cruz in '82. I was married for 25 years with 2 kids, a boy and a girl. I have previous been employed doing painting, landscaping,construction. I am currently looking for work in the skills that I do know. I am open to any warehouse work or night stocking at grocery stores. I have a very open mind, get a long with people. I have a dog that I care for very much.

My backstory.

When I was married, unfortunately, I gave my wife a hug to go to work and I felt a lump on her left side. She went to the hospital and found out it was Stage 4 right away. She passed away within 4 months. At that time it was during Christmas and New Years, it was hard. I lost my daughter. I wasn't sure what I was doing at this point whether it was right or wrong. I just fell apart. I ended up doing the wrong things. I ended up loosing everything. I have been struggling for the past 6 years. I ended up going to Delancy St. for two years. I have been clean and sober for the last two years. I go to AA and keep to myself. I love my dog, Wicked. Right now I am trying to get going away.

My goals, moving forward.

My goals are to get a job where I can support myself and not have to rely on food stamps, GA, and city benefits. I would also like to get off the streets.

Other things I'd like to share about myself.

Wicked, my dog, makes me happy. My proudest moment is to not isolate myself and try to get out to meet people, go to different places, do different things and trying to be happy and move on with my life.