Ray of Hope is raising $3,876 ($323 x 12months) to help Sandy and Sean with their children’s school expenses.

49 year-old Sandy and her partner, Sean, live in a one-room rental flat. Sandy has a 15 year-old daughter from her second marriage and a 7 year-old son from her last relationship. She has two other children, 22 and 24, from her first marriage who do not stay with her.

While her second husband battled end-stage stomach cancer, she was juggling three part-time jobs to provide for the family. He passed away in 2015, leaving behind their 15 year-old daughter. Sandy’s most recent job was at a restaurant, but she had to quit because the transportation costs of getting to work and back were too high.

Sandy has been struggling with multiple health issues, including cervical cancer, depression, asthma and spinal issues. She recently underwent spinal surgery, which affected her mobility and she is mostly bed-bound now. She is also certified unfit for employment until August 2023.

Sean suffers from depression and high blood pressure. He was recently advised to be admitted to the hospital, due to extremely high blood pressure. However, he refused because he is Sandy’s caregiver and needed to be at home to look after her. The couple is unable to provide for the family as both individuals are medically unfit for employment, relying on social assistance to make ends meet.

“It’s the first of the month, and my wallet only has $16 left,” Sandy shared. Her family’s lack of money and food is a huge stress on her.

Both Sandy and Sean need support during their recovery. They hope to continue working so that they no longer have to worry about the school expenses for their children.

*Sandy and Sean are receiving social assistance.