Barley helps with rent

EDITOR’S NOTE – The Barley MacTavish Fund accepts letters from Midland county residents about themselves or other people, explaining why they need help and what they have tried to do about their problems. Write to Barley, care of the Midland Area Community Foundation, 76 Ashman Circle, Midland, MI 48640 or call (989) 839-9661. Be sure to include a daytime telephone number.

There is no real Barley MacTavish. This fund was established by an anonymous donor and is being continued with private financial support, plus donations from area residents during the holiday season. The project has been undertaken to help make Midland a little better place to live.

Dear Barley,

We moved to Midland almost two years ago. My husband and I had good jobs and our children love our neighborhood and schools. Two months ago my husband suffered a stroke. Thank goodness, we were able to get medical help quickly, and according to his doctors, he will completely recover.

However, his recovery will take time. He has a good job, but when he doesn’t work, he doesn’t get paid. We are lucky that he will have his job when he is ready to go back to work.

We have never asked for help and never dreamed that we would be in this position. We doubled down on our budget. But with the expenses of the start of school and three kids, I just cannot stretch my paycheck. Could you help us out with next month’s rent? We would be so grateful. Thank you so much.

Dear Friend,

Medical emergencies can really “throw a monkey wrench” in the plans of any household. I am thrilled that your husband is expected to make a full recovery and he will have a job waiting for him. I will send a check to your landlord for your rent. Best wishes to all of you.