Aiden is 24 years old and was recently dropped off at our rural home without money, shelter, transportation, consent, or a plan. For the last 4 years, he was exploited by an employer in Chicago who only permitted him to receive tips, work that should have qualified him for minimum wage protections. Receiving at least minimum wage would have provided him a pathway to independence and an opportunity to save money.
Aiden was diagnosed with autism 2 years ago. He has multiple food allergies, and our rural location makes it very difficult for him to find work or access disability services without transportation. We're helping him connect with disability resources, a job search, and an apartment search. He's temporarily staying with us, but we can only provide shelter for about three weeks.
Our goal is to help Aiden move into an apartment within walking distance of employers in a nearby urban area, where he can build independence and access the support he needs. One-bedroom apartments in the closest towns rent for $800–$1,200 per month. The current fundraising goal should help Aiden with a deposit, first month rent, a few groceries, and bus fare. Your support would help us get Aiden into safe, stable housing quickly and give him a real chance to move forward.
