When life throws an unexpected curveball, it can feel like the world is closing in on you. The shock, the fear, the uncertainty—it’s overwhelming. In the midst of a family crisis, the last thing anyone wants to think about is money. But sometimes, the financial burden is unavoidable. That’s where the power of community comes in.
Setting up a crowdfunding campaign, such as through GoFundMe, isn’t just about raising money; it’s about rallying support and finding a sense of solidarity. At Helpr, we encourage you to give yourself permission to ask for help when you need it most.
The most important part of your campaign is your story. This is where you share what happened, why you need help, and what the support will mean to you and your family. It’s okay to be honest here—people respond to authenticity. You don’t have to sugarcoat things or downplay your needs. Let your story reflect the reality of what you’re going through.
Start with a clear introduction. Explain the situation as if you’re talking to a friend. Share the impact it has had on you and your family, emotionally and financially. If you’re comfortable, include details about how the crisis has changed your daily life. This helps people connect with you on a personal level.
And, don’t forget to let them know how much their help would mean, whether it’s covering medical bills, funeral costs, or simply helping to keep the lights on while you navigate this difficult time.
Setting a goal for your crowdfunding campaign can feel tricky. You want to be realistic about what you need, but it’s also okay to aim high if that’s what the situation calls for. Think about all the costs involved—both immediate and long-term. This might include medical expenses, therapy, childcare, travel, and even lost income if you or a family member needs to take time off work.
Don’t be afraid to break down your goal in the campaign description. People are more likely to contribute when they understand exactly where their money is going. For example, you might say, “$10,000 will cover the cost of medical bills, while $5,000 will help with rent and utilities for the next three months.” Transparency helps build trust and encourages people to give.
Once your campaign is live, it’s time to share it with your network.
We understand at Helpr that this can be one of the hardest steps, especially if you’re not used to asking for help.
But remember, being human means we all need each other sometimes. Leaning on others is a natural part of life. Many people in your life may want to support you—they just need to know how. Start by sharing your campaign on social media and through email. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, coworkers, and even acquaintances. You might be surprised at how many people are willing to step up when they know you’re in need.
When you share your campaign, include a personal message that explains why you’re reaching out. Again, honesty is key. You don’t have to write a novel—just a few sentences explaining the situation and why their support would mean so much.
As your campaign progresses, it’s important to keep your supporters in the loop. Regular updates help people feel connected to your journey and show them the impact of their contributions. Whether it’s a quick note to say thank you or a more detailed update on how you’re doing, these messages matter.
If you reach your goal or if there’s a significant change in your situation, let people know. They’ve invested in your story, and they’ll appreciate hearing how things are going. Plus, continued updates can encourage others to donate or share your campaign with their own networks.
Setting up a crowdfunding campaign after a family crisis can be daunting, but it’s a meaningful way to rally your community and find the support you need. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you raise a little or a lot, simply sharing your story can make a difference.
At Helpr, we’re here to support you in any way we can. During a family crisis, taking care of yourself can be challenging, let alone those who depend on you. With our app, you can easily book subsidized care for as little as $1/hr, ensuring that you and your loved ones are taken care of.
You’ve got this, and there are people ready to help you through it.