Help Jaqui Secure a Safe Future for Her Kids

My name is Jaqui, and I am the mother of seven children (six minors and one adult). I have been navigating the complexities of a high-conflict divorce from my extremely toxic ex-husband for the past four years.

Our marriage was deeply damaging and characterized by severe financial, mental, emotional, and sexual abuse. I have diligently focused on healing and ensuring the well-being of my children, obtaining certifications to enable me to work from home and continue homeschooling them.

Despite my efforts, I remain legally married with no formal custody arrangement in place. My ex-husband has consistently refused to pay child support, although had initially agreed to cover medical expenses and modest homeschooling fees ($130 per month). For the past year and a half, I have relied heavily on the support of my adult son while living independently after escaping the abusive living situation, filling in by driving for Uber. During this time I've obtained the certifications I need and have created the legal entity for my freelance business. I am now looking for clients.

( I had originally fled my ex's home in October of 2020, escaping to the local DV shelter. After which I spent until July of 2022 living in hotels and AirBnbs, working to survive day to day. I was not able to secure a rental in that time due to my ex having ruined my credit and rental history. Shear exhaustion in trying to maintain this led to a decline in my health and necessitated my return to his home. I was able to secure my current rental in July of 2023)

The recent intervention of Child Protective Services (CPS) due to neglectful conditions in my ex-husband's home has necessitated immediate action. While I previously hesitated to file for child support due to fear of retaliation and uncertainty about his income, the CPS involvement has made it imperative.

I recently filed for child support, but my ex-husband has escalated his abusive behavior, refusing to pay agreed-upon homeschooling fees and threatening to further disrupt our lives.

This ongoing trauma is deeply affecting my mental health and exacerbating my PTSD. I urgently need to finalize the divorce and establish a legal custody arrangement to protect my children and myself from his continued harassment and abuse.

(My adult son has also had to leave my home. After a violent episode at the end of December I had to ask him to leave. This has left me without his support. I also was in a car accident in October, leaving me without a vehicle and, subsequently, the ability to drive for Uber)

I am actively building my business and have secured a part-time paid internship to supplement my income. The anticipated child support payments will also contribute to my financial stability.

However, I require immediate assistance to cover legal fees for the divorce proceedings and address immediate living expenses. Any remaining funds will be used to replace my vehicle.

I am a dedicated and hardworking mother who has consistently prioritized the well-being of my children. While asking for help is difficult, I am facing a critical juncture and require support to ensure the safety and security of my family as we move forward.

FUNDS RAISED will be used to cover legal fees, essential living expenses, and the eventual replacement of my vehicle.

Thank you for your understanding and support.