I’m writing in the hope that South Coast Spotlight will consider sharing the story of a very special young mother in our community who, right now, could use a little help from the people she spends so much of her time helping. Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-read-help-baby-ezra-his-moms-story-after-a-fire?
Her name is Emily.
Emily isn’t just a friend of mine. She also works for me as my morning PCA, or personal care assistant. I live with a disability, and the simplest way I can describe what Emily means to me is this: she is my arms and legs in the morning. She helps me do the everyday things that many people never have to stop and think about — the things that make it possible for me to begin my day with independence and dignity.
But Emily’s value goes far beyond the practical help she provides.
She is one of those rare people who seems to carry kindness with her wherever she goes. No matter what might be happening in her own life, she walks through my door with a smile. She is dependable, hardworking, compassionate and endlessly giving. She spends her days taking care of other people.
Now, she is the one who needs someone to take care of her.
On August 20, a fire at 507 S. Second Street in New Bedford left Emily and her 7-month-old baby, Ezra, without a home. Their apartment is uninhabitable, and Emily is suddenly facing the overwhelming reality of emergency housing, replacing necessities and trying to figure out how to rebuild a life for herself and her infant — all without renters insurance.
It is heartbreaking to watch someone who has spent so much of her time helping others suddenly find herself in a position where she needs help.
A GoFundMe has been started for Emily and Ezra, and I’m doing everything I can to help get their story in front of our community. I’m reaching out to South Coast Spotlight because sometimes the most powerful thing we can do for someone is simply tell their story.
Maybe someone will donate. Maybe someone will share their fundraiser. Maybe someone has a resource, a connection, temporary housing, baby supplies or another kind of assistance that Emily desperately needs. Or maybe this story will simply reach the one person who has the ability to make a difference.
Whatever comes from sharing their story, I know one thing:
Emily has been my helping hands on more mornings than I could ever count.
Right now, I’m hoping our community can be hers. Link to GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-read-help-baby-ezra-his-moms-story-after-a-fire?
Thank you for taking the time to read Emily and Ezra’s story, and for considering giving them a voice and helping connect them with the community support they need during this incredibly difficult time.
With gratitude,
Jessica
