Hi, my name is Catherine, and I’m a single mom trying to start a fresh life for myself and my daughter.

A few years ago, I moved to the Netherlands to study, never planning to stay permanently. But life had other plans. Along the way, I became pregnant with my miracle baby girl, and from that moment, my life changed forever.

For the past three years, I’ve devoted myself completely to raising her — giving her all the love, care, and stability I could. We’ve been living in a small one-bedroom home, sharing the space with her father. Although he didn’t contribute financially or help in raising her, I did everything I could to create a safe and loving home for our daughter, using what little I had to make it work.

It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has made me stronger. My daughter is my greatest blessing — the reason I keep pushing forward and striving to build a better life for us.

Now, my little girl’s birthday is coming up, and she’s about to start school — a big milestone in her young life. More than anything, I want to give her the space, independence, and stability every child deserves: a room of her own, a safe home, and a fresh start in life. With Christmas approaching, I dream of giving her a holiday filled with warmth, joy, and beautiful memories — something truly special after all we’ve been through.

Unfortunately, by law, I cannot return to my home country without her father’s consent. I am determined to build a safe, independent life for us here, even though I have no family or support network in this country. I’m starting over completely — finding a place to live, furnishing it, preparing for school, and supporting both myself and my daughter on my own.

I’m asking for your help to:

• Move out and secure a safe home with space for my daughter.

• Furnish our home so she can have her own room and a comfortable environment.

• Get the supplies we need for her schooling and our new life.

Every contribution — no matter how small — will help us take the next step toward independence and stability. We’re ready to work hard and build a happy, secure future together, and your kindness will make all the difference.

As Christmas draws near, I want to make this season truly magical for my little girl — to see her eyes light up with joy, to give her a sense of warmth and wonder, and to remind her that even in difficult times, kindness and hope still shine bright.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping a mom and her daughter start anew and make this Christmas one to remember.

— Catherine