Mother of 2, loses everything to house fire

My name is Lara Money , and I am a mother of two beautiful girls and a grandmother of 1 handsome grandson. I am also a survivor of domestic violence, a journey that has been marked by unimaginable challenges and trauma. I spent 7 years in the hiding and pretending that it will get better, that things may change. They didn't, they got worse, about 5 years ago I began to pick myself back up and start my plan to flee from this horrible situation. I began to get myself better by attending therapy, and following the advice and support of my counselor. I landed a job 4 years ago, which led me on my journey to a job of my dreams. I seen hope in my future as the I began to secretly build a positive, healthy, and safe future for my girls and I. I found something in me that I would have never found without my then employers. Last year, 2023 I was hired on with the company of my dreams! I said 3 years ago one day I would make it to them; and I did. SO with the new job I started to make some serious changes in my life for the better. I finally fled my abuser, I finally got away. I found a home and established stable environment for my 2 girls, grandson and I,

Yet, despite the hardships, I have strived to create a safe and loving environment for my children, hoping to shield them from the pain I have endured.

However, tragedy has struck our lives once again on January 21st of 2024, That home went up in flames and robbed us of all our possessions, leaving us with nothing but the clothes on our backs and the scars of our past. The fire has not only taken away our shelter but has also shattered the fragile sense of security we have worked so hard to build. I saved for years to get this for us, and it was just taken away in less than 7 minutes

Barely able to make it from day to day now. My savings is gone and my paycheck just goes to helping us maintain daily shelter and daily essentials to just live. I have been able to continue to work for the most part. In fear I may loose what I worked so hard to achieve. Actively looking for other employment to help with the daily struggles of life. Actively looking for home to start rebuilding our lives. Resources are not available as one might think they are.

As a survivor, I have faced many trials, but nothing could prepare me for the anguish of watching everything we own consumed by flames. We still haven't found our dog.... :(

So many days I wake up just wanting to give up. I taught my girls their entire lives, not to give up, GET UP, DUST YOURSELF OFF, AND TRY AGAIN; ALLOW NOTHING TO DEFEAT YOU.

SO what would l look like, if I give up?! I know I got to get up, dust myself off, and try again. In fear of having to return to my old home, where I may not ever be able to flee again.

I have no idea how we will ever make it out of this, as I have said many times before. This is something I never imagined nor was prepared for..... all I can do is continue to be strong for my girls, for I am all they have.

Your donations will enable us to secure temporary housing, replace essential belongings, and begin the arduous process of rebuilding our lives. I am hoping to find more stable housing and be able to afford it. I understand that times are tough for everyone, and asking for help is never easy. I am embarrassed that its even come to this... ...

If you are able to contribute, please consider making a donation to support our family during this challenging time. Your generosity, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in our lives. If nothing else, could you share my story?

With deepest gratitude,

Lara BlevinsMoney