My name is Melissa and I’m a SURVIVOR of Domestic Violence.

This past December my life completely changed. The person that was my partner showed his true self. While I was able to escape with my life, I had to make extreme changes in a short amount of time in order to keep myself and my dogs safe. I had to use the majority of my savings in order to do this. The scars left by abuse have taken a toll physically, emotionally, and mentally on not only on me but on Wilbur as well.

I started a part time job to help with additional expenses. I have been working 7 days a week for the last month. This has taken a toll on me and causing exhaustion and not allowing me the time I need to heal from the trauma that I have experienced. This has also caused Wilbur to have severe separation anxiety and become destructive. I have been working with a vet to help him but this has caused me to put my needs second to his. I have come a long way to break free from an abusive relationship, but the journey to healing is just beginning.

I am reaching out today to ask for your help, as I need assistance to fully heal, rebuild, and move forward. I have found the strength to leave a toxic environment, but the financial burden of starting over from scratch is overwhelming. Like many survivors, I have faced many obstacles as I try to rebuild my life. I have reached out to ask for help but I have been met with many roadblocks. The list of phone numbers I have been given have not been useful; I call and leave voicemails and either it takes a month for my call to be returned or I don’t hear back at all.

The funds I’m raising will go towards the following:

1. Therapy and Counseling: The trauma I’ve experienced requires professional support to process and heal. Therapy sessions are crucial to helping me regain my confidence and mental health. While I have been able to use my EAP and start therapy the only counselor available does not accept my insurance. They do offer a sliding scale for additional sessions, but it is unfortunately out of my budget currently.

2. Living Expenses: As I transition into a safer, more stable environment, I need help with rent, utilities, and essential living costs to give me the peace of mind I need to focus on recovery. Having assistance with this will allow me to take the time that I need to heal physically, emotionally, and mentally.

This journey is difficult, and it is not one I can complete alone. If you are able to contribute in any way, your donation will help me heal, reclaim my life, and move forward into a bright future. I know this is going to be a tough year but I refuse to let it break me. I just need some assistance to help me fully get back on my feet.

Thank you for your support, your kindness, and for giving me hope. Your generosity will make all the difference in helping me reclaim my life and continue on the road to recovery.

With love and gratitude,

Melissa