Skip to main content

Joleen

April 18, 2020

My name is Joleen. I’m 20 years old and am in my second year at Leeward Community College. Before the pandemic, I’d attend school Mondays and Wednesdays. I also worked 4-5 nights a week as a sales representative for Sweet Treats by Kris LLC. Going to work and interacting with my coworkers and customers is something I truly cherish. Work was my second home.

Every weekend was spent running errands with my boyfriend and our French bulldog Ziggy. I’ve had Ziggy since he was 3 months old. Even though he is a puppy, I consider him my son. I always tell my parents, “this is the closest you’ll get to a grandchild for a very long time.” LOL. He’s my baby and I’d do anything to make sure he’s healthy and happy.

But all of this came to an end about a month ago. 

I live with my parents and my two older brothers. Everyone is laid off and it’s hard to buy groceries and pay for our house necessities. I found out during this time that my puppy isn’t digesting dry food too well, he was throwing up for days. I had to switch him to raw food, he’s doing much better thankfully, but unfortunately it’s very expensive. I’m honestly scared of not knowing what’s going to happen when I’m unable to buy his food. I pray every night that I’ll have enough. 

I’ve recently started selling my clothes and anything in my room that I don’t use anymore just to make extra cash. I have to say that I haven’t missed working this much in my life, I can’t wait to go back. 

After this quarantine is over, I plan to continue my associates in business. During the summer I plan to take on more hours at work and build up my savings. I want to take my puppy to the dog park again and be able to pay for his food without having to worry. 

My dream for the future is to work in the tourism industry. Tourism has always been an interest of mine and I plan to hopefully work for an airline or hotel. I want a job where I can talk with people and understand their needs while fulfilling their dreams.

Thank you to all the donors. You all are so generous & kind, I’m VERY thankful. This situation is very unfortunate but you all were thoughtful enough to take off some financial stress. I appreciate each & every one of you. Thank you.

Joleen from Leeward Community College


If you would like to learn how you can support UH students and programs like this, please contact us at 808 376-7800 or send us a message.