I am a single mother of two I need money to help catch up my bills and to rent an apartment for my children and me I am currently unemployed

credit card bills start a small buisnes

My name is Stephen J. D'Ottavi and I am currently unemployed and I am suffering from severe lower back and neck pain.  I do not have any type of insurance and would like to be able to see a doctor to have my problems properly diagnosed.  I also nead money to pay my bills possibly in the form of a loan or grant.

I.m a speciality contractor in concrete, stamping, staining, driveways, walkways, patios, garages, excavation, concrete repair, overlayments, colors, art work of concrete. New business started 7/05, I need help and advice as a women minority to help get my feet off the ground. I need equipment, shop with land, I'm home based for now and growing. I'm a grandmother of 5, was in nursing for 25 plus years and I changed my career for the better and my life. Moved from Missouri to Oregon, whole new life for me. Wanting to make a good business plan and get some grants to help me with my new career and suceed.

 This notation is written to outline the series of events which led to their present situation and subsequent request for Loss Mitigation Assistance.

 An April 18th, 2004, Bernardino was struck by another motorist in a direct motor vehicle collision. The other driver was late for work, speeding an excess of limit, and openly admitted running the red light facing him. Unfortunately for them, this person was unable to provide a driver’s license, proof of insurance, or even a social security number. He was issued several tickets at the accident scene and was allowed to go by the Houston Police Department.

 Bernardino was cut out of his vehicle, back boarded and collared by the paramedics of the Houston Fire Department. He was transported to the Methodist Hospital Emergency Department where Erwina is employed as an RN. After extensive x-rays, CAT scans, and close physical examination by the emergency room doctor. Bernardino was released with the diagnosis of multiple contusions, bruises, but no broken bones or extensive injuries. Both the police and the paramedics interviewed Bernardino while in the ER. They were given the news that the other driver was injury free but unable to provide legal documents to support himself. They were advised to retain the services of an attorney.

 An April 19th, 2004, they visited the holding area of the towing company that secured the accident scene. State Farm adjusters were already there and proceeded to declare the vehicle, a brand-new 2004 Chevy Tahoe, a “ total loss. ” They were advised to see Attorney DeSimone by the owner of the wrecking service in order to facilitate the paperwork with the insurance company involved. They retained the services of said law firm on the same day.

 On April 20th, 2004, Bernardino was referred to Doctor S. Pagano for management of symptoms resulting from the accident. Doctor Pagano is a chiropractor and proceeded to provide care in the form of adjustments to Bernardino’s neck and back. After three weeks of therapy, Bernardino was cleared to return to work. Bernardino then informed Doctor Pagano that he would discontinue visits since he was fit to return to work. The final adjustment resulted in immediate pain and tingling to Bernardino’s left side.

 After several days of pain and gradual numbness, Bernardino returned to Doctor Pagano’s clinic. Doctor Pagano ordered a CAT scan of the head and neck to search for injuries. The results were forwarded to his office and the clinic visits continued until the end of May. By June, Bernardino’s symptoms were worsening. He developed intense headaches, blurred vision, trouble walking, and distinctive weakness to his left arm and left leg. Doctor Pagano’s services were discontinued after several sessions where Bernardino constantly informed him of worsening symptoms and growing anxiety that more harm was occurring rather than good. Bernardino was put on short term disability leave by his employer, the Methodist Hospital.

 Between June and July 2004, Bernardino was admitted several times for neurological problems stemming from symptoms related to continuous complaints post chiropractic therapy. The Methodist Hospital was unable to pinpoint the cause of worsening condition despite several CAT scans and MRI. By mid-July, 2004, Bernardino was unable to walk without assistance, drive a vehicle, sit/stand/lie down for more than five minutes, continuous headaches and numbness and weakness to bilateral extremities. A myelogram was done at the insistence of Erwina since CT/MRI results were negative. The myelogram showed fractures in C3-C4 of the spine. Bernardino underwent decompression and fusion of the C-spine on July the 19th, 2004.

 By September 2004, Bernardino was terminated from his position with the hospital and was given long-term disability status. His ability to earn was reduced to an income of $1134.25 a month. Erwina continues to work as an RN in order to provide for the family. State Farm insurance was unable to pursue the other driver for damages. The other driver failed to appear in court to address the citations in which he was charged with. It is unknown if this individual is still in the United States. Bernardino severed his relationship with the DeSimone Law Firm and hired the Matthews Law Firm to represent his case against Dr. Pagano for chiropractic malpractice. Litigation is pending as of July 2005.

 Bernardino and Erwina continue to reside in their home located at 8503 Rigby Court, Humble, TX. They have four children: Xianelle- age 13, Xiarhina- age 10, Xiarissa- age 7, and Marcus- age 5. The children reside in the same home and attend local public schools. The family has the use of one vehicle for transportation to work/school. Due to Bernardino’s continuing disability and frequent hospitalizations, the family continues to experience financial hardship. The family has recently been granted permanent residency status as of January 2005 and is therefore ineligible to receive social security assistance for dependence. Erwina’s income remains the sole source of financial stability for the family. Her income is affected by frequent leaves taken in order to care for the children and Bernardino during his many hospital admissions. Recent cutbacks to overtime shifts at the hospital has led to further reductions in income earned. Furthermore, Bernardino and Erwina have no family support in the United States.

 In conclusion, Bernardino continues to hold disability status and Erwina is currently seeking a second, full-time job in order to supplement finances. They have applied for disability status for homestead tax assessment purposes. They are requesting a stay of foreclosure and wish to enter into an agreement with Waterfield Mortgages to reduce the monthly payment and to extend the length of time the mortgage is contracted for. They are in the process of debt consolidation and review by attorney for possible bankruptcy. It is their hope to remain in their home if possible as poor credit standings indicate low probability for re-location to another house/apartment. They have consulted several real estate firms in Houston and were told market value of home would not be met due to surplus of homes for sale in the immediate vicinity. It is understood the equity in the present home is limited, however Bernardino and Erwina feel all avenues of relief have been explored, and therefore request any assistance in saving their home.

I am a graduate of Mercer University in Communications and Theater Arts.  I am the mother of a 5 year old son and I have been married to my husband for 6 years.  My husband is a great tattoo artist, and I know there are many who do not believe a tattoo shop is not a good business, but the one I am wanting to take over is in a great neighborhood and has great business.  The owners are moving west and I would really love to take on this opportunity.

i lost my job..im looking for a job .been looking since 8-8-05.lost my job of 5 years on 8-6-05..i have bill comming in for the stove and frige and ac unit..total is 299.00 every two weeks. to pay in full is 3000.00 total my friends have been helpin me but they cant any more..the lot rent is 390.00 monthly..that is why im asking for a 5000.00 grant..i will pay back if i can get one.my credit score in not good.. when i get a job soon i will pay it back...thank you for your time...

martin estrada

I would like to start a nonprofit to benefit the disadvantage and at risk youth 

 and adults.To educate  people regarding ways that they can become

 productive individuals in the community,

Greetings,

Wow! It's been awhile since I have been here. The site looks great! I like the new format. I will have to get re-acquainted with it.

So I have not been here for about a year. Time flys when there is lot's going on in one's life. Still dealing with my health. Last couple of month's it has been my teeth.

Dentures are a-comin soon. And today I just found another part of the tooth that was pulled comming up through the gum. I have ask God to heal me. And I say my "Thank You God for my healing". every day. So hey, it may be getting my third set of teeth. Now, that would be a hoot!

So, I made it back to San Deigo, CA. I love that place. I started to help my friends out there with house sitting. So I am now know as "The Gyspy House Attendant". It is the perfect job for me with all my disabilities.

Another thing I have been researching is the type of vehicle that would sote my needs, both everyday and the disabilities. I am now looking for the old JEEP GRAND WAGONEERS! It is low to the ground so I can get in and out of it and I can put the back seat down when I need to rest. Plus I can haul my little "Gypsy Vardo Wagon" behind it. So that is my next vehicle. Keep a look out and let me know if there is one in your neck of the woods.

Speaking of woods, I am back in Pennsylvania. My 88yr old Aunt called me to come back and help her out. She is having some major health issues herself. So I am back in the mountains of the Appalachians. It is nice now because of the Spring. However, those damp cool nights are killing my back and joints.

So I am back and will promise to check in at least once a week.

Blessing to you all and may all your dreams come true.

LABikermamma.

##########

UPDATE MAY 2007

Ok, well that little toyota truck I got has some major problems. So I cleaned it up and have it up for sale for $835. No sooner did I put the ad in the paper an old mechanic friend found a working truck that I can get in June. See how GOD works Miracles. You have to let go of all your negitive energies.

In the meantime, I am doing little house projects for my 87yr old aunt. I did the trim in the bathroom and I want to paint my room. I put some tomato plants in the garden. So once I leave to go back west, everything will be done for her.

I guess I am on a spring cleaning kick. Not only for my life but my spiritual life as well.
It feels pretty good to let go of all your own shit.

My new saying is: "Life is Good!".

*****
Update: April 11, 2007.
Ok I am over the tools being stolen.  Now working on getting the truck fixed. Getting the AD space sold on the truck and I am out of PA for good. They do every thing backwards here and I am finding out about "legalized extortion" when it comes to trying to registrar the title of a truck. What a racket.  I know enough bitching but I got to tell you whenever you are trying to move forward and you have everyone blocking you, instead of giving you a hand up...get's depressing. And more snow.....ugly. So AD Space anyone?

Thanks.

Update: 04/10/2007.
well so much for thinking positive! I just got robbed of all my tools to fix up the truck.
so now I have a truck with no tools.  At least I did not get my house ransacked like my neighbor did. They got the worst of it.  So there goes 8k out the window.
I just need the Universe and God to give me a leg up everyonce in awhile instead of chopping me off at the knees.
LABikermamma

Update: 04/08/2007.

Just want to wish every one miracles for this blessed day of giving thanks.
May all your dreams come true. My dream is for a truck to make it back
home to san diego,ca from PA.( I got the truck april 2007). Thank you.
Please read my bio(Post#160-onFree money site)
My journey out of  suffering and into another chapter of my new and different life.

In appreciation to all,
LABikermamma

ps:With a "Little help from my Friends". I am now looking for businesses to ADvertise
on the sides of my truck. Websites/800# etc. I will be traveling 2185 miles from PA to San Diego, CA at the end of June 2007. I will charge a buck a mile..That is a dollar a mile.
It will be all Freeway/Highway driving. Stops at Truck Stops and Casinos. I will leave the ad on the truck for one month and I will even email you a picture. Cheapest BillBoard Advertisement there is! What do you think of that idea?

Can anyone direct me to a government agency/grant that can help save our home from foreclosure? Our mortgage company has turned our account over to a law firm and the public sale is scheduled on our property. My husband works on commission and I am unable to work due to illness. Thank you for any information you may be able to give. J. Ragan

I am searching for a grant to assist with my living expenses while I complete my college education next year. Money for rent, utilities, and car would help a great deal while I am attending school full time. Because I am working right now, I am not eligible for assistance from a Pell grant, but next school year I can not work full time, because I will be in school full time.

I would like a grant to help grow my business, to buy equipment, supplies, and pay for employee wages.

The first place to look when you need help to pay your bills.

Everyone is hurting (financially) right now. Recession, depression, call it what you want, the fact of the matter is: there is not enough. Our country has enough, it's just not getting to the people who need it. Families are expected to work more and get by with less. It's ridiculous. When and where will it end? I have revamped my national organizations page to, hopefully, make it more user friendly. In addition, please check out these other incredible pages :

****All direct links are in green or yellow

Please note, even though we try to, we cannot answer every post. 

Soulight,

Elaine,

Lady Christie,

Ekikaseven,

The NATIONWIDE organizations listed below can assist you with your basic needs, including: food, clothing, rent, utilities, transportation, back to school needs, medical, dental, and holiday needs.

IF they cannot assist you, they may be able to refer you to someone who can.

211.org

• A service of United way – lists most nonprofit organizations in your local area
• available in most counties (not all)
• available both online and by calling 2-1-1 in your area ( free call)

Support for military personnel and their families
Assistance just for military and their families

Government benefits
Find out what government benefits you may qualify for

Social Services

the first place to go when in need – they can help with child care, child support, rental assistance, food stamps, healthcare, burial assistance, temporary financial assistance, etc.

Local benefits by state
Select a State from the map to view a list of the selected State's benefit programs.

American Public Human Services Association

Internet site that list social service agencies by state. A NATIONWIDE listing of social services offices and applications online

SSA.gov
To apply for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income

FREECYCLE
looking for something? Getting rid of something? Check out FreeCycle!

The following organizations may be able to fill in the gaps, or help, when Social Services cannot:

• Community Action Organization
  
  St Vincent De Paul
  
  Red Cross
  
  United Way
  
  Catholic Charities
  
  Salvation Army
• 
  

Emergency food and shelter board program

• The EFSP National Board does not provide direct client assistance. Direct assistance is provided through a variety of resources, which may include EFSP funding in your community. If you are in search of assistance for yourself or someone you know, you should look in the community services section of your local telephone directory. You should find these pages in the front of your directory and should look for listings for American Red Cross, Catholic Charities or Catholic Social Services, The Salvation Army, United Way Information and Referral, or other non-profit service providers. You may also click on Funded Organizations, here or on the EFSP homepage, to find organizations funded through EFSP in your community who may be able to assist or refer you to the appropriate assistance.

FOOD

FOOD STAMPS - OFFICES BY STATES

government program part of social services
WIC
Specifically for pregnant/postpartum women and children UNDER 5 - government program part of social services

Find a food co-op near you!

Angel Food Ministries – listings by state

HOUSING AND UTILITIES

HEAP
utility assistance - government program part of social services

FEMA NATIONAL SITE

HUD - RENTAL ASSISTANCE
If you need rental assistance this is the place to start. Subsidized housing is based on your income and often times it is much quicker to get into a subsidized apartment than to wait for a Section 8 Subsidy approval
Also check out how subsidized rent is determined

HUD/SECTION 8/Govt subsidized housing
Section 8 housing usually has a long list because the subsidy is attached to the person, not the property. This means that regardless of where the person lives, they still get the subsidy. In NY the waiting list is 8-10 years.

****If at anytime, you are denied accessibility to applying for any program, you should contact your local city, county, or state leaders and have them intervene on your behalf. - THIS APPLIES TO ANYONE WHO IS DENIED ASSISTANCE.

HOWEVER, there is another alternative. Subsidized housing where the subsidy stays with the property rather than with the renter. You would still pay the same amount of rent - it is based on your income - but you would have to move into a government subsidized property.

In most cases, these are handicapped accessible, family oriented, all the maintenance is included - among other things.

I am including the link for HUD below - just click on the proper state and take it from there. You will need a minimal security deposit - which you may be able to get from social services or another charitable organization.

Regardless of how long the list is you should still be able to be put on the list.
Contributed links:

hud rental assistance

fair housing act

home page

Americans with disabilities act homepage

HOUSING ASSISTANCE COUNCIL
Does NOT help individuals, BUT does have a lot of information and links for individuals- please browse through the site for more information.

WORK AND SCHOOL

Department of Labor
Can assist with: unemployment, job search, resumes, job training, wage and hour, layoffs, overtime, workplace safety, retirement and health benefits, and disability questions.
Ways to Work
How can you work if you have no transportation? Most social services programs do offer bus passes to help you get to and from work. This is different. This is NOT part of social services. This is a LOAN program specifically for low income families in need of a car or car repair, who do NOT qualify for conventional loans. They have their own set of requirements and are NOT available in every state.

http://www.alliance1.org/Programs/Waystowork.htm

Free Application for Federal Student Aid - FAFSA
government grants to finance your education

MEDICAL HELP

FREE MEDICAL CAMPS

United Health Care Childrens Foundation
Grants, up to $5,000, can help families pay for the costs associated with therapies such as speech, physical and psychotherapy sessions; for medical equipment such as wheelchairs, braces, hearing aids and eye glasses; and for orthodontia and dental treatments.

Childrens Healthcare Emergencies

United Health Care Children’s Fund might be able to help. "Grants, up to $5,000, can help families pay for the costs associated with therapies such as speech, physical and psychotherapy sessions; for medical equipment such as wheelchairs, braces, hearing aids and eye glasses; and for orthodontia and dental treatments."

Partnership for Prescription Assistance
assistance with medications for those without insurance

Donated Dental services
In each state at least one program coordinator is responsible for determining that applicants are either disabled, elderly or medically compromised and have no other way for paying for dental care.

Together Rx
discount card for prescriptions

GREAT DISCOUNT MEDICAL CARD

http://dwesley1981.aidpage.com/about.htm

GRANTS LOANS AND WISHES

evander holyfield foundation

MODEST NEEDS
non-profit organization reaching out to hard-working individuals and families who suddenly find themselves faced with small, emergency expenses that they have no way to afford on their own

OPEN DIRECTORY PROJECT
Listing of organizations which grant wishes to disabled, terminally ill, children and adults.

Prosper
loan program for people - from people

AZOGROUP.COM

How To Locate Small Business Grants,
Government Grants, and Other Grant Money

MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCES

(In other words, I wasn’t sure where to put these!)

Toys for Tots
Christmas assistance for families with children

Credit counseling

· CCCS

· NFCC

· money management. Org

· credit.org

• pro bono financial planning assistance

ATTORNEYS

• probono attys
• divorce source

PETS

If you need financial assistance, for a pet who is ill, check out this page:
National financial assistance organizations for pets

nichy org - resources

a series of Web resource pages on topics of high interest and concern. They're intended to connect you quickly with a range of resources, materials, and guidance on these topics.

is it a scam?

fraud and scam information

GRASSROOTS.ORG
This is one site you have to see for yourself! If you want to start a non-profit, volunteer, get involved, or just do some research, this is the place to start!

SEX OFFENDERS

Is there a sex offender living near you? find out here