Back in October of 2012, we posted about about a neighbor we called Natalie (she now prefers to go by Aileen, her middle name). She's been longtime fixture in the neighborhood (specifically Cole Valley) since the early 80s, likes music and books, and spends a whole lot of time at Amoeba and Booksmith (full disclosure: Hoodline's Upper Haight editors are employed at the latter).
Though there are many people in the neighborhood who could use a helping hand, there's something special about Aileen. When she finds a place she likes, she often comes in every day, and gets to know all the employees who work there. She has an impeccable memory for dates, and once she gets to know someone, she'll remember every important date in their life. She likes giving small gifts, will tell you look nice every time she sees you, and likes sending cards, even though writing is difficult for her.
Back in 2012, we noted that Aileen, who's developmentally disabled, had been living with a partner and caretaker who suddenly succumbed to cancer and heart disease. During the time he was in the hospital, her rent went unpaid. Just as she was about to get evicted, concerned neighbors and friends were able to raise two months' rent for Aileen in only about 48 hours. It was riveting.
Shortly after that, her partner passed away. Since then, her finances have only gotten more complicated, though a roommate moved in with her to help pay rent and take care of basic day-to-day responsibilities. For a while, things calmed down.
This month, without warning from her social agencies, her food budget was reduced from $200 per month to $97 per month. Aileen didn't know this was coming until the check came in the mail. Her friends and social workers are working to find out what happened to the money. They have some theories, but so far, no leads to chase. In the meantime, she's eating a lot of crackers.
As a result, another fundraiser has appeared, this time on IndieGoGo. Her friends are starting with a modest stopgap goal of $103 to get her back up to her normal $200 food budget. Whatever is raised beyond that will go toward the food budget in future months.
You can check out the fundraiser here. Also, it's payday, so if you have a little extra to spare, consider contributing to a neighbor in need.
And if you know of a worthy organization or person you'd like to see profiled on Hoodline, let us know in the comments.
