Hi, my name is Carina and I’m setting this up on behalf of my sister, Christa, and, my niece, her 7-year-old daughter, Sophia.

Christa is an incredible mom who has spent years fighting to keep Sophia safe, stable, and loved. Unfortunately, this fight has come at an enormous financial and emotional cost — and it’s not over yet.

⸻

Why We Need Help

Christa has already gone through a long, painful trial against Sophia’s father. The court recognized that Sophia’s best interests are protected by living primarily with Christa, and that Christa should have sole parental decision-making authority, especially around critical issues like mental health .

But despite these protections, her father’s behavior has been escalating and becoming increasingly concerning. It has reached the point where Christa’s attorney has advised that she must return to court to seek full custody.

This is not just a “custody battle.” This is a matter of life or death for Sophia’s safety and well-being.

⸻

The Financial Reality

    •    Christa has already spent over $50,000 of her own hard-earned money fighting this case.

    •    She still owes about $15,000 in lawyer fees from the first trial.

    •    A new trial will add thousands more to that bill.

    •    On top of legal costs, Sophia’s father has failed to provide financial support as ordered by the court .

    •    Right now, Sophia doesn’t even have health insurance because her father lost his job and is refusing to provide the documents Christa needs to enroll her. Christa is paying out of pocket for medical expenses until January, when she can add Sophia to her employer plan.

Christa has carried this burden alone for years. She’s worked, sacrificed, and stretched every dollar to fight for her daughter. But at this point, she simply cannot do it without help.

⸻

How You Can Help

We are raising funds to:

    •    Pay down the $15,000 in existing legal bills.

    •    Cover the mounting costs of going back to trial to secure full custody.

    •    Relieve some of the crushing financial pressure Christa is under so she can focus on what matters most: Sophia’s safety, stability, and life.

⸻

Every Little Bit Counts

If you can donate, even a small amount, it will make a difference. If you can’t give, please consider sharing this fundraiser with others who may be able to help.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you for standing with Christa and Sophia in this fight. Your support means more than words can express.