I’m Jacob DeNoyer My cousin Melissa and her husband Chad— who is also my best friend — are expecting their baby soon, but instead of focusing on this joyful and life-changing moment, they’re being forced to worry about how they’ll pay their bills.

Melissa has been denied paid maternity leave by the school district where she works, despite dedicating herself to her students and community. She only has 3 weeks of paid time off saved up, but needs at least 8 weeks to recover, bond with her baby, and adjust to this new chapter. That leaves 5 weeks completely unpaid.

To make things worse, she was denied FMLA coverage because she had to take medical leave due to a head injury sustained on the job last October. She is currently working with an employment attorney, but these legal processes take time — and they still may not result in any compensation.

This situation is heartbreaking and unfair. Maternity leave shouldn’t be a privilege — it should be a protected right. No family should have to choose between financial stability and time with their newborn.

We’re hoping to raise $7,000 to help them stay afloat during this critical period — to cover rent, groceries, and basic needs while they navigate this unjust system.

Every dollar helps, and every share makes a difference. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this with others who may be able to support.

Let’s give this family the peace of mind they deserve so they can welcome their baby without fear and financial stress.