Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson.

Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson.

When 106-year-old Virginia McLaurin danced over to shake the hands of President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama at the White House, she damn near melted the nation’s heart.

“I thought I would never live to get in the White House, and I tell you I am so happy,” she told them.

But despite her infectious glee, the longtime District resident has faced her share of hardships—including a bedbug infestation that lasted months. She hadn’t seen the video of her with the Obamas until the Washington Post showed it to her.

In response to an outpouring of people asking how they could help McLaurin, supporters have started a YouCaring.com page for her.

“This donations page was created so that we can all help her have the resources she needs to live comfortably and to continue her active role in the community,” the page says. McLaurin continues to volunteer for 40 hours a week as a foster grandparent, and works with the Latino Economic Development Center. “We also encourage you to look out for the people like Ms. McLaurin in your neighborhood. There are elders in everywhere who give back to the community and could use some support.”

Since launching on Tuesday afternoon, the page has raised nearly $8,000 towards a goal of $50,000.

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