Single Mother With 7 Small Children Needs Help With Utilities

by Michelle Lynn Brown
(Peoria, Illinois, USA)

I am 31 and a mother of 8 including one with the Lord. My oldest child was diagnosed after a few weeks old with Downs Syndrome.

I have a son who is ADHD. I seek help but having a big family some don't like to. I love my children so much. My boys are playing sports "football" which helps let out their stress but only in a good way.

I was diagnosed with depression and stress about 3 years ago. When I can't get my medicine my daily life is even harder for my family and me.

I recently stopped working 3rd shift because I couldn't sleep and I had got real sick while tending to 7 children by myself.

I just got back on the medical card so the first week of September 2011, I have an appointment to get back on my medications.

My family only gets $251 in food stamps, which is not enough. I want to put my oldest on a diet. She has a disability and kids with her situation gain weight rapidly and it becomes unhealthy for them.

I try to earn money online. I get 2 checks a month for my daughters' disability. Both checks are $674 each. But I am looking for employment now that I'm better. I've applied for grants, and asked churches for help.

I'm looking for a grant that will help me get back on my feet for my children and myself.

I want to pay my Central Illinois Light Company bill. It's over $1500 and CILCO is telling me to pay by September 9, 2011.

I want to be able to get school supplies for my children and get more stuff for my kids that are needed for football.

I'd like to take CNA classes while I pursue to getting my GED or High school Diploma, which was wrongfully taken from me by the school district losing my test scores.

I am writing a book about my sister who was murdered by a serial killer and the cost just to even get it registered is $650.