I never imagined I would be in a position where I would need to ask for help like this.

Over the past several months, I have been trying to rebuild my life after leaving an abusive relationship. What should have been the beginning of a safer and more stable chapter has instead become a constant struggle to stay afloat financially while dealing with the aftermath of abuse - including medical problems, legal issues, housing instability, and the emotional toll of trying to start over alone.

I am currently living in housing that I can no longer afford. My rent is about to increase to $1,400 per month, which is far beyond what I am able to manage right now. I have applied for every form of assistance I can, including state and federal support programs, and I am currently waiting to hear back from most of them. Unfortunately, because of the housing shortage and my limited financial resources, I have not been able to find or move into a safer, more affordable place (not to mention the financial cost of moving, and the emotional cost of leaving my home after so many years).

I have spent months trying to do everything “the right way”:

- applying for housing assistance and other assistance programs

- searching for affordable and subsidized apartments

- trying to secure stable employment

- handling continuing legal and safety-related issues

- gathering paperwork and documentation, attempting to consult with attorneys for advice and / or representation

- asking for help from local agencies and nonprofits

Despite all of that, I am still at risk of losing the little stability I have left simply because I cannot afford the cost of surviving this situation, and current inflated costs we are all facing.

The financial impact of leaving abuse is much greater than most people realize. In addition to rent, I am facing potential moving costs, legal expenses, transportation costs, replacing essential belongings, and basic living expenses while I try to get back on my feet. Much of my time and energy has gone toward navigating safety concerns, housing applications, and recovering emotionally with qualified mental health professionals, which has made it very difficult to regain financial stability quickly.

The funds raised here would help me:

- Cover rent while I wait to hear back from housing assistance programs

- Avoid losing my current apartment / home before I am able to find another option

- Pay for a security deposit and moving expenses if a safer or more affordable apartment becomes available

- Cover legal fees related to the abuse and the housing situation

- Replace basic necessities and household items

- Afford groceries, gas, phone service, bills, and other essentials during this tough transition period

To help me remain safe and stable while I wait to hear back from housing assistance programs and continue searching for affordable housing and consistent employment, I am hoping to raise approximately $3,000-$5,000 to cover:

• $1,400 to keep my current housing for one more month after the rent increase

• $1,400 for a security deposit and application fees if I am able to secure a safer, more affordable apartment

• $400-500 for moving, storage, and transportation costs

• $500-$1,000 for legal, court, and documentation expenses related to rebuilding my life and protecting my future

• $500 for groceries, phone service, gas, and other basic necessities during this transition

More than anything, I want a chance to move forward. I am actively trying to create a stable future for myself and have not given up, even when this process has felt overwhelming and isolating. I know many people are struggling right now, and I do not take asking for help lightly. If you are unable to donate, just sharing this fundraiser would mean so much.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for helping me take one more step toward safety and stability.