My current job brought me to California from North Carolina, 26 years ago. I have lived in several locations around San Mateo County. I was a homeowner for 8 years and am now a renter. Through the years, my rent has not increased much, but recently, the owners of my current place decided to raise my rent by hundreds of dollars on two occasions. On August 28, I was issued an eviction notice, with 60 days to vacate. I’m having difficulty not only financially, but also emotionally. I recently had minor surgery, and feel that my healing is being delayed due to the emotional stress. We need to realize that big companies are taking over OUR communities and driving out people like me who have established families and do not want to leave the area.

—Pamala Sommers