Hi everyone, Over the last several years, our dear friend, beloved and fiercely talented poet, and supporter of so many has been quietly navigating his own mental health. If you know Jamaal, you know that he is always down to support or strategize with you about how to do something or achieve your desired outcome. He will listen and hold space, and now it is time that we hold space for him. A couple months ago, Jamaal had to leave his long time home, “The Lighthouse”, and hasn’t had a stable place to regularly meet all of his basic needs. Recently, as a result of the toll this has had on his mental health, Jamaal was hospitalized. A small group of us are looking for more hands-on and in- person support for Jamaal. We are in need of people who can help move, as well as people who could offer a place for Jamaal to stay for a while until he finds a new apartment. He could also use help in finding a new place. So, if you have leads there, that would be supportive. Jamaal is excited to work and has several upcoming gigs. The goal is to set up a Patreon for consistent support from people who love, admire and want to hear more of his work and for people who just want to lend a hand because he has lended one to them. Jamaal has, as always, things to share with the world, and needs a safe and foundational place in which to do that, which includes everything from housing to community. Jamaal will likely be out of the hospital this week, and with a steady stream of love, he will get back on his feet, and that is where you come in. Also, sharing this much about Jamaal’s personal story outside of poetry is a big step. Privacy is also appreciated around specific details, but please know that Jamaal is getting the help he needs, and has been on this journey with his mental health for quite some time. Over the years, as with anyone, he’s learned what works for him and what does not, and is in a place to build the infrastructure of support with that in mind.