My name is Nichole. I am a domestic violence survivor and a single mother of two boys.

After 20 years of abuse, I finally found the courage to protect myself and my children. Leaving was the hardest thing I have ever done — but staying would have cost us everything.

A year ago, I fled our home with my boys after my ex’s threats of physical harm escalated. He had worked for years to isolate me and control my world. In my darkest moment, friends stepped in and gave us shelter and safety. With their help, I obtained an Order of Protection and eventually returned home.

What we returned to was devastating — our house covered in cruel and defamatory signage, belongings disturbed, and the emotional weight of starting over. I changed the locks. Installed cameras. Created emergency safety plans in case he tried to take our son from school. I worked with counselors to make sure my boys had support. I took unpaid time off work to keep us safe — and still managed to pay our bills.

But the abuse did not end when we left.

Over the past year, my ex has continued to exhaust my resources. He has refused to pay shared expenses related to our children, drained my savings, and filed a $100,000 lawsuit against me personally — forcing me to hire yet another attorney. Each step forward has come with another attempt to knock us down.

Despite everything, I have fought to maintain our independence and stability.

The financial burden has been overwhelming:

These are not luxuries — they are the cost of safety, shelter, and freedom.

I am employed and doing everything I can. But the time, energy, and financial strain required to protect my children and rebuild our lives have become staggering. I live with constant anxiety that I will run out of options. That after finding the courage to stand up for myself, I will be backed into a corner again.

Asking for help is not easy. But part of healing is learning that we do not have to survive alone.

Our fundraising goal is $180,000. It is a number that once felt too overwhelming to even say out loud. But it reflects the true cost of breaking free and creating long-term stability for my children. At nearly 50 years old, this is not a financial setback I can easily recover from on my own.

Every dollar donated will go directly toward:

If you are unable to donate, I completely understand. Sharing this campaign with others is just as meaningful. It truly takes a village.

If you are able to give, please know that every contribution — no matter the size — makes a difference. Your support is more than financial. It is a reminder that our voices are louder than abuse. That community is stronger than control. That healing is possible.

Together, we can lift the weight of debt and trauma and create a future defined not by fear, but by safety, education, and hope.

With deep gratitude and belief in the power of community,

Nichole