Hi everyone, I know this is a particularly difficult time for everyone to give. However, this gofundme is near and dear to my heart and I ask for your generosity. I have seen first hand a close friend who left an abusive relationship and has tried for almost 5 years to protect herself and her children from the perpetrator. The California legal system has proven in nearly every respect that the state has no interest in protecting mothers and children, regardless of abuse, restraining orders, or violation of said restraining orders.
Without a strong support system, this friend would already have lost her children, been destitute, or been forced back to the abusive relationship. After watching this pain evolve through five years of turmoil, with no end in sight, I keep thinking of the mothers who don't have money for legal representation and cannot protect themselves or their children. If you are a parent, no doubt you can imagine the pain would be nearly unbearable. 
This fundraiser is for battered women. Any donation, big or small, will make a huge difference for women fighting for themselves and especially their children. Even if it means just buying food and other basic needs.
I sincerely thank each of you in advance for your love and support. 

Lais Wallace