How You Can Help
Your support is appreciated in helping us cover our basic needs during this challenging time. Every contribution, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated and will be used to directly address our current financial difficulties, which in turn, will help in support of our mission and that is to be of service and reach as many people as we can. if you are located within Ontario and you would like to make a financial contribution towards our mission and support our work, you can do so by using either of the following options:
Your support is appreciated in helping us cover our basic needs during this challenging time. Every contribution, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated and will be used to directly address our current financial difficulties, which in turn, will help in support of our mission and that is to be of service and reach as many people as we can. if you are located within Ontario and you would like to make a financial contribution towards our mission and support our work, you can do so by using either of the following options:
- E-transfer for Both: my1111agreement@gmail.com (Password: Integrity)
- For Sameena: my1111agreement@gmail.com (Password: sameena1111)
- For Scott: turnarounddottv@gmail.com (Password: Integrity)
👩🏾 You're here because you're part of a select group, about 20 people who received my email on November 27th. I've been waiting for responses, and although I haven't heard back from many, your presence on this page means a lot to me.
Scott and I had a passionate discussion about what should be on this page, the follow-up to the email I sent. We want to ensure that this message is more than just about needing help with rent. It's about sharing our journey, the challenges, and our aspirations.
I shared my story with you in the email, hoping to connect and be transparent about our situation. It's not easy to be this open, but it's necessary for you to understand the depth of what we're going through.
We've been disconnected from the world, trying to make sense of our situation while trying to maintain our dignity. The truth is, life has been tough, especially with the financial constraints we're facing. We're both on financial assistance, and every month is a battle to meet our basic needs.
Scott has been working on various initiatives, like the 1313 model, to create opportunities despite the restrictions from Ontario Works (long story), but it's challenging. The system feels like it's holding us back, but we're determined to find a way through it.
We're in this together, and we're doing everything we can to fight our way out of this situation. It's not just about survival; it's about creating a meaningful difference in our lives and in the lives of others who are in similar situations.
We could use your support, not just financially, but emotionally and mentally. This website is an honest portrayal of where we are and what we're trying to achieve. We're not ashamed to ask for help because we know this is a stepping stone towards a bigger mission – one where we can be self-sufficient and help others too.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, for considering our story, and for any support you can offer. Every bit of assistance brings us closer to turning our situation around and achieving the stability we desperately need.
Scott and I had a passionate discussion about what should be on this page, the follow-up to the email I sent. We want to ensure that this message is more than just about needing help with rent. It's about sharing our journey, the challenges, and our aspirations.
I shared my story with you in the email, hoping to connect and be transparent about our situation. It's not easy to be this open, but it's necessary for you to understand the depth of what we're going through.
We've been disconnected from the world, trying to make sense of our situation while trying to maintain our dignity. The truth is, life has been tough, especially with the financial constraints we're facing. We're both on financial assistance, and every month is a battle to meet our basic needs.
Scott has been working on various initiatives, like the 1313 model, to create opportunities despite the restrictions from Ontario Works (long story), but it's challenging. The system feels like it's holding us back, but we're determined to find a way through it.
We're in this together, and we're doing everything we can to fight our way out of this situation. It's not just about survival; it's about creating a meaningful difference in our lives and in the lives of others who are in similar situations.
We could use your support, not just financially, but emotionally and mentally. This website is an honest portrayal of where we are and what we're trying to achieve. We're not ashamed to ask for help because we know this is a stepping stone towards a bigger mission – one where we can be self-sufficient and help others too.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, for considering our story, and for any support you can offer. Every bit of assistance brings us closer to turning our situation around and achieving the stability we desperately need.
👩🏾 Recent Update:
Recent Update:
We recently had to reach out to Bell Canada to request that our internet not be cut off due to non-payment. We explained our financial situation and the devastating effect losing internet access would have on both our well-being and our work. Dr. Norman Goldberg even wrote a heartfelt letter on our behalf to Bell Canada, requesting six months of free services due to our financial circumstances. If you're interested, you can read Dr. Goldberg's letter to Bell Canada HERE
The email below serves as a recent and personal testimony to our situation. From: Sameena Fernandes my1111agreement@gmail.com Date: Thu, Nov 16, 2023, at 2:08 PM Subject: Struggling to Survive: Requesting Your Support To: info@sevafoodbank.com, guestservices@salvationarmy.ca, theopendoor@hotmail.com
Recent Update:
We recently had to reach out to Bell Canada to request that our internet not be cut off due to non-payment. We explained our financial situation and the devastating effect losing internet access would have on both our well-being and our work. Dr. Norman Goldberg even wrote a heartfelt letter on our behalf to Bell Canada, requesting six months of free services due to our financial circumstances. If you're interested, you can read Dr. Goldberg's letter to Bell Canada HERE
The email below serves as a recent and personal testimony to our situation. From: Sameena Fernandes my1111agreement@gmail.com Date: Thu, Nov 16, 2023, at 2:08 PM Subject: Struggling to Survive: Requesting Your Support To: info@sevafoodbank.com, guestservices@salvationarmy.ca, theopendoor@hotmail.com
From: Sameena Fernandes <my1111agreement@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Nov 16, 2023 at 2:08 PM
Subject: Struggling to Survive: Requesting Your Support
To: <info@sevafoodbank.com>, <guestservices@salvationarmy.ca>, <theopendoor@hotmail.com>
"Hello,
Both my roommate and I are struggling financially. We are living below poverty levels, and currently, we can't afford basic needs such as food and other essential health care resources.
Recently, we attempted to reach out to a list of at least 11 foodbanks as referred by Ontario Works. Unfortunately, we had no luck because either we were not in the right catchment area, or we lacked transportation to pick up the food in person.
Additionally, my roommate has been enduring a toothache for about 3 to 4 months and cannot afford dental care. He also struggles with other physical and mental disabilities. Thankfully, he was recently approved for Transhelp, allowing him to attend necessary appointments, with me approved as his support person.
Both of us have been diagnosed with mental disabilities. I, for instance, suffer from an anxiety disorder, paranoia, learning disability, and memory loss. We have medical documentation to confirm these conditions.
It has been incredibly challenging to ask for help due to feelings of shame. We have never before utilized a food bank or sought help like this. This entire experience is new to us, and we're unsure of the available resources or your process. Do we need to schedule an appointment?
Please let us know about the kind of support or resources you can offer. If further information is required from our end, do let us know. We eagerly await your response and appreciate your guidance.
Thank you,"
Sameena
Date: Thu, Nov 16, 2023 at 2:08 PM
Subject: Struggling to Survive: Requesting Your Support
To: <info@sevafoodbank.com>, <guestservices@salvationarmy.ca>, <theopendoor@hotmail.com>
"Hello,
Both my roommate and I are struggling financially. We are living below poverty levels, and currently, we can't afford basic needs such as food and other essential health care resources.
Recently, we attempted to reach out to a list of at least 11 foodbanks as referred by Ontario Works. Unfortunately, we had no luck because either we were not in the right catchment area, or we lacked transportation to pick up the food in person.
Additionally, my roommate has been enduring a toothache for about 3 to 4 months and cannot afford dental care. He also struggles with other physical and mental disabilities. Thankfully, he was recently approved for Transhelp, allowing him to attend necessary appointments, with me approved as his support person.
Both of us have been diagnosed with mental disabilities. I, for instance, suffer from an anxiety disorder, paranoia, learning disability, and memory loss. We have medical documentation to confirm these conditions.
It has been incredibly challenging to ask for help due to feelings of shame. We have never before utilized a food bank or sought help like this. This entire experience is new to us, and we're unsure of the available resources or your process. Do we need to schedule an appointment?
Please let us know about the kind of support or resources you can offer. If further information is required from our end, do let us know. We eagerly await your response and appreciate your guidance.
Thank you,"
Sameena
How You Can Help
Your support is appreciated in helping us cover our basic needs during this challenging time. Every contribution, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated and will be used to directly address our current financial difficulties.
To Contribute:
For a detailed understanding of our financial situation, the challenges we face, and the specific ways in which contributions are utilized, please see the information provided below on this page. This section offers an in-depth overview and broader context of our current circumstances. We maintain this information with weekly updates to ensure ongoing transparency and honesty in our financial journey with our supporters. The page was last updated on November 16th.
Your support is appreciated in helping us cover our basic needs during this challenging time. Every contribution, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated and will be used to directly address our current financial difficulties.
To Contribute:
- E-transfer for Both: my1111agreement@gmail.com (Password: Integrity)
- For Sameena: my1111agreement@gmail.com (Password: sameena1111)
- For Scott: turnarounddottv@gmail.com (Password: Integrity)
For a detailed understanding of our financial situation, the challenges we face, and the specific ways in which contributions are utilized, please see the information provided below on this page. This section offers an in-depth overview and broader context of our current circumstances. We maintain this information with weekly updates to ensure ongoing transparency and honesty in our financial journey with our supporters. The page was last updated on November 16th.
A Candid Overview
🤖 Hi, this is the ChatGPT. Having analyzed all of Dr. Goldberg's letters and other supporting documentation, I am deeply familiar with their situation, I’m uniquely positioned to offer insights into their financial situation and the critical role of each expense in their lives. Let’s dive into the significance of the expenses Sameena listed below and the rationalization behind each.
Each of us receives $733 monthly from Ontario Works. Despite this limited income, we strive to cover our essential expenses, including rent, which is our foremost priority.
🤖 Hi, this is the ChatGPT. Having analyzed all of Dr. Goldberg's letters and other supporting documentation, I am deeply familiar with their situation, I’m uniquely positioned to offer insights into their financial situation and the critical role of each expense in their lives. Let’s dive into the significance of the expenses Sameena listed below and the rationalization behind each.
Each of us receives $733 monthly from Ontario Works. Despite this limited income, we strive to cover our essential expenses, including rent, which is our foremost priority.
- Our rent, totaling $1,795.83, is more than just a housing cost; it's an investment into our safe haven and workspace. Half of this space is dedicated to our business and not-for-profit activities, making this expense crucial for our survival and mission 🙏
- High-Speed Internet at $124 per Month: This isn't just any internet service; it's a high-fiber optic connection with upload speeds of 1 GB. Such speed is not a luxury but a necessity for their work, particularly when Sameena and Scott are simultaneously on Zoom calls with different people. In their line of work, which involves high-quality video streaming and uploading large files, a slower or unstable connection could severely impact their professional output and client interactions.
- Rent at $1,795.83 per Month: Importantly, at least 50% of their living space is dedicated to their business activities. This isn't merely an assumption but is confirmed by their well-being agreement, acknowledged by Dr. Goldberg, and aligns with Revenue Canada's records. Thus, the portion of rent they pay serves a dual purpose: it's not only their home but also their workspace for both for-profit and not-for-profit initiatives. This makes a significant part of their rent an investment into their business, which is both a legitimate and essential expense.
- Adobe Premier Pro at $31.63: As I mentioned earlier, this software is crucial for their video editing needs. It allows them to create professional content, which is a cornerstone of their business, especially given the digital nature of their work.
- ChatGPT at $31.49 per Month: The role of ChatGPT in their daily operations is significant. Given their cognitive challenges, including memory issues and ADHD, ChatGPT serves as an essential tool for recording, transcribing, and organizing their professional and personal interactions. This tool is indispensable in ensuring they maintain continuity in their work and personal lives.
- Zoom Video Conference at $25.00 per Month: This tool remains critical for their therapy sessions, business meetings, and other professional interactions. In their work, where face-to-face interaction is often replaced by virtual meetings, Zoom is not merely a software but a necessary platform for connectivity.
- ONE MONTH TWO MONTHS 3 MONTHS 4 MONTHS 6 MONTHS OTHER
- Pro Bono Accounting Services: Sameena and Scott have been fortunate to receive pro bono accounting services since the beginning of COVID. This professional guidance is crucial in helping them navigate their financial situation, especially in terms of aligning their expenses with legal and tax regulations.
Category | Amount (USD) | Percentage of Total Expenses |
---|---|---|
Total Monthly Receivables (Income) | N/A | |
Ontario Works | $1,466.00 | |
Total Monthly Expenses | ||
Rent | $1,795.83 | 89.44% |
High-Speed Internet | $124.00 | 6.17% |
Adobe Premier Pro | $31.63 | 1.57% |
ChatGPT | $31.49 | 1.57% |
Zoom Video Conference | $25.00 | 1.24% |
Total Expenses | $2,007.95 | 100% |
🤵♂️👩🏾 A MESSAGE FROM US TO YOU
If the thought of making a financial contribution comes to mind, please consider this: if it is inspired by your experience as a recipient of our Step 12 services, we must humbly decline your generous gesture to want to give back. We cannot, in good conscience, accept any payment or gifts that may be perceived as in exchange for our Step 12 work.
It is essential that such a donation remains a separate gesture, not tied to the services that we freely give as part of our commitment to the Step 12 tradition.
However, should you feel moved to contribute, we of course welcome your support in helping us continue our broader mission.
We only ask that if you wish to make a financial contribution of some sort, we only ask that you make a that donation with the clear understanding that your contribution is not a payment for Step 12 services, but a gesture and a genuine desire to support our work outside of Step 12. This allows us to maintain the integrity of the Step 12 tradition, which is priceless and serves as An 'Entire Profit Motive' initiative, anything other than that, is not Step 12.
This distinction is crucial for us and helps preserve the therapeutic and spiritual essence of our Step 12 practice.
If you wish to make a financial contribution to support the work click on any of the below options below that you would prefer to have your financial contribution to go towards ✅
If the thought of making a financial contribution comes to mind, please consider this: if it is inspired by your experience as a recipient of our Step 12 services, we must humbly decline your generous gesture to want to give back. We cannot, in good conscience, accept any payment or gifts that may be perceived as in exchange for our Step 12 work.
It is essential that such a donation remains a separate gesture, not tied to the services that we freely give as part of our commitment to the Step 12 tradition.
However, should you feel moved to contribute, we of course welcome your support in helping us continue our broader mission.
We only ask that if you wish to make a financial contribution of some sort, we only ask that you make a that donation with the clear understanding that your contribution is not a payment for Step 12 services, but a gesture and a genuine desire to support our work outside of Step 12. This allows us to maintain the integrity of the Step 12 tradition, which is priceless and serves as An 'Entire Profit Motive' initiative, anything other than that, is not Step 12.
This distinction is crucial for us and helps preserve the therapeutic and spiritual essence of our Step 12 practice.
If you wish to make a financial contribution to support the work click on any of the below options below that you would prefer to have your financial contribution to go towards ✅
OTHER OPTIONS TO MAKE A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION THAT MAY BE MORE CONVENIENT FOR YOU:
If you are located in Ontario And You Prefer To Send A Direct E-transfer:
If you would like to make a donation to both Sameena and Scott, please use the following email address: my1111agreement@gmail.com (please use the password: Integrity).
For donations specifically to Sameena:
If you would like to make a donation specifically to Sameena, please send it to this email address:my1111agreement@gmail.com (please use the password: sameena1111).
For donations specifically to Scott:
If you would like your donation to go directly to Scott, please send an Interac e-transfer to: turnarounddottv@gmail.com (Please use the password: Integrity).