My name is Erica, and I’m a 32-year-old mom of two beautiful girls — ages 8 and 3. They are my entire world.

Until recently, my dad was their primary caretaker. He loved them deeply and provided a safe, stable home for them when I wasn’t able to. But tragically, my dad passed away not long ago, and everything changed overnight. My daughters are currently with my stepmom, but it’s not the place they should be growing up. I am fighting to bring them home to me, where they belong.

I want to be honest about my past because I believe in being transparent — for many years, I struggled with family trauma and drug use. Those years were hard, and I made mistakes I wish I could take back. But I am proud to say that I am now clean, in treatment, and close to graduating from my program. I have also recently completed an IT program and am working hard to transition into a career that will give us a more stable life together. I’m currently employed, building my income and future step by step.

Right now, I have a small studio apartment and an e-bike that gets me to work, but it’s not enough for the life I want to give my daughters. I am raising funds to help with:

A down payment on a reliable car so I can get to work, school, appointments, and activities for my girls.

Getting started in a new apartment or home, with enough space for my daughters to grow, play, and feel secure.

Support while I work toward entering a program that helps low-income families purchase their first home.

Every dollar will bring me closer to reuniting with my girls in a safe and stable home. This isn’t just about furniture or four walls — it’s about giving my daughters a real chance to grow up surrounded by love, laughter, and the security they deserve.

If you can give, no matter how small the amount, it will make a difference. If you can’t donate, sharing this page with others would mean the world to me.

Thank you for reading my story, for believing in second chances, and for helping me take this step toward bringing my daughters home.

With love and gratitude,

Erica

Edited to add: Erica has full control of these funds and they are deposited to her account. I understand some of you all don’t know me and might be leery of giving. Just know she gets it all, at her discretion. -Amy Wells