Emergency Support Needed for a Survivor and Their Child

I'm reaching out on behalf of a resilient, genderqueer parent and survivor who is facing a deeply urgent and painful situation. They are 27 years old and have spent most of their life in Vermont, where they maintained stable housing for over six years with a consistent record of paying rent on time. They've worked hard to support their family, including time spent working at Groundworks to help others navigate crisis and homelessness.

Last year, they made a hopeful move out of New England to start a new chapter with someone they trusted. After a trial visit over the summer with their child, carefully scoping out the place and assessing whether it was a safe and sustainable option, they decided to relocate. But shortly after, their child was sexually assaulted by the partner’s older child.

They have carried the weight of that trauma quietly for a long time, grieving for their child and the life they had hoped to build. Like many survivors, they didn’t know how to ask for help, especially in a world where so many are already stretched thin. They didn’t want to add to anyone’s burden.

Since returning to Vermont, they have fought tirelessly to rebuild their life and keep their child safe. They're currently housed in a motel through the state’s emergency housing program. But that support is ending on June 30th, and they’re now facing the terrifying reality of having nowhere else to go.

The motel environment has also brought its own challenges, including threats to their and their child’s safety. Despite all of this, they’ve continued to apply for jobs, reach out to services, and advocate for themselves, but the effects of trauma and the lack of accessible resources have made it incredibly difficult to find footing again.

They’re not asking for a handout. They’re asking for a chance. A moment to breathe. A little stability so they can begin healing, support their child, and get back to a place of safety and self-sufficiency.

We are trying to raise funds to help secure long-term housing, cover basic needs, and buy time for them to stabilize without constantly living in survival mode. Every dollar, every share, every resource helps.

In addition to financial support, they are currently looking for safe, temporary housing for themselves and their child. If you or someone you know has a room, guest space, or temporary setup they could stay in even short-term, please reach out.

Any leads or support are deeply appreciated during this time of transition and healing.

If you’re able to contribute, amplify, or connect us to someone who can help, thank you. Your support means more than words can express.

With deep gratitude,

Adriana Negron