A 25-year-old gay man is currently living in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalized and carry severe legal and social consequences, including the risk of violence.

He is seeking safe relocation to a country where he can live openly without fear for his safety. This fundraiser aims to support the costs of his travel, legal documentation, and initial resettlement.

The situation is time-sensitive due to increasing pressure and threats from his immediate environment. Any support will go directly toward helping him secure basic safety and freedom.

Even a small contribution helps move him closer to safety. Sharing this fundraiser through your social media, email, or text networks can also make a meaningful impact.

The Danger He's In:

He writes:

In my society, queer people live in constant fear. Families can legally imprison their children under vague accusations of "disobedience."

Honor killings are not only tolerated but often encouraged.

The danger I face every day is very real. For my safety, I cannot even publicly name my country.

I live with a deeply religious and abusive family. They beat me after suspecting I was in a relationship with another man, even though they found no evidence. My younger brother, the only one who knows I'm gay, has physically attacked me and threatened to kill me or expose me.

If he outs me, I could be imprisoned, tortured, or even killed by my family (and the government would look the other way or impose minimal sentences).

I recently overheard my family planning to force me into a marriage with a woman, or take me to a religious "healer" to be "cured."

I know that if I stay here, I will lose my freedom and possibly my life. I'm reaching out to you because I have no one else.

Escape to Safety:

I am trying to raise $10,000 to escape and seek asylum in New Zealand, which is welcoming to LGBTQIA+ refugees, where I can live freely and safely as myself.

What the Money is For:

Your support will go toward:

• A passport

• A plane ticket

• A visa application

• Emergency shelter and basic needs when I arrive

• Initial legal and relocation costs during my asylum process

This is my only way out. Thank you for reading my story and for standing with me. Your kindness could save my life.

Every donation, no matter how small, brings me one step closer to safety. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this campaign with others who might help.

With hope and gratitude,

[name withheld]

How we are handling the funds:

Budget Breakdown (estimated):

Item and Estimated Cost (USD)

$10,500 Total Needed

Note: If costs are lower, any remaining funds will go toward continued legal, housing, and survival support during the asylum process.

Austins Plan to Start a New Life in New Zealand (in his own words):

1- If my asylum claim is approved, one of the first things I want to do is continue my education, ideally in engineering or science, which I’ve always been really passionate about. Studying further isn’t just about building a career; it’s also a chance for me to grow as a person and give back to the community that’s offering me safety and a fresh start.

2- I also want to stay actively involved in supporting the queer community, especially other asylum seekers and refugees like me. I’m committed to standing up for our rights and working with organizations that help people rebuild their lives and feel like they belong.

I’m truly hopeful about what the future holds. Leaving my home country isn’t easy, but I’m ready to start this new chapter in New Zealand and make the most of the opportunities ahead.