Help Michelle's Sister Reunite with Her Kids

Hi everyone, my name is Michelle Melendez.

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to ask for your help. My sister is in desperate need of a lawyer to fight for custody of her children.

She bravely tried to leave an abusive relationship where she suffered deeply. Despite her efforts to build a better life—working two jobs to support her three children—her abuser used lies and manipulation to convince the system to take them away. While she was working tirelessly to provide and protect, he was doing the opposite: offering no support, only abuse—to her and to the kids.

My sister has written to the judge, and even has a letter from a social worker supporting her. She has filed police reports against her abuser. Still, her children were taken, and she hasn’t been allowed to see or speak to them in weeks.

Most attorneys are asking for $5,000 to take her case. We’ve tried to find a pro bono lawyer, but every organization we’ve contacted is overwhelmed and unable to help at this time.

As a mother myself, I can’t imagine the pain she’s going through. If you can relate to her story or simply want to help reunite a mother with her children, I humbly ask for your support. Any amount—no matter how small—will go directly toward legal representation so she can have a fair chance in court and bring her children home where they belong.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.