As a resident of Farmingdale since 1996 I'd like to tell a recent event which occurred in my life on Dec. 12, 2000. I was the victim of a house fire.

I lost almost everything (pets, furniture, etc) and almost my life. This was one of the worst experiences of my life. I was sent out into the winter with no help from my landlord. Since then I have been in a motel paying all the bills myself for over two months, as well as the storage fees for the belongings I was able to save.

I have tried unsuccessfully to get any rental agent in the area to help me. Why? Because real estate brokers won't help me because I'm considered a disaster victim. Social Services said they would help me with the broker's fee, security, moving, etc., and that the United Way would pay the first month's rent in a new place, but real estate agents are reluctant to help due to my financial situation. I am not on Social Services, I work two jobs seven days a week! My first job is being a bus matron with physically challenged children and on weekends I work at a local laundromat in Farmingdale managing, cleaning and doing laundry for those who use drop off service. These are both very hard and demanding jobs. That did not make a difference, however, in any broker's efforts to help me.

If it had been warm weather I would have lived in my car but unfortunately winter is here. If I could find someone with a heart and humanity to help me find a new place it would be greatly appreciated.

-Diane Bryant

(Anybody who feels they can be of help to Ms. Bryant may contact the Farmingdale Observer at 747-8282, or 132 E. 2nd Street, Mineola, NY 11501, Attention: Marta E. Levenson, Editor. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.)