I am a disabled man who cannot work, and I rely on benefits that barely cover my daily living expenses. I am reaching out because my situation is becoming increasingly dire, affecting not only me but also my five children. Despite my efforts to prioritize my kids and ensure they have food on the table, there are weeks I have to go hungry to make ends meet. My mental health is deteriorating under this strain, and I deeply worry about the well-being and future of my family.

The current system provides insufficient benefits to disabled individuals like myself, who face immense challenges in securing basic necessities such as food, housing, and healthcare. According to the National Disability Institute, people with disabilities are twice as likely to live in poverty compared to those without disabilities. This statistic is reflected in my life, as the support I receive is inadequate to lift my family above the poverty line.

Raising children on a fixed income is already a daunting task, and the additional pressure of living with a disability exacerbates the financial burden. I urge policymakers to re-evaluate and increase disability benefits, ensuring they are aligned with the actual cost of living and reflect the true needs of individuals and families in similar situations. This is not just about survival; it’s about dignity, mental health, and providing a better future for our children.

By increasing the financial support for disabled families, we can help alleviate the cycles of poverty and mental health issues associated with economic strain. More robust benefits would go a long way in enabling disabled parents to provide the best for their children, fostering an environment where kids can thrive without the anxiety of financial insecurity looming over them.

Please sign this petition to advocate for increased disability benefits and help create a more just and supportive system for those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference for families who are struggling to meet their basic needs.