Hello, my name is Victoria. I am a mother doing everything in her power to care and advocate for her little boy, Leo, who has Level 3 autism.

I am reaching out during one of the most devastating periods of our lives. I am not asking for luxury or comfort — I am asking for help to keep my child safe, housed, and able to continue the therapies he depends on to function in the world.

LA Wildfire Survivors — We Lost Everything

My son and I escaped the Los Angeles wildfires, but not without unimaginable loss. We lost our home, nearly all of our belongings, and one of our beloved dogs. We were never allowed to return and were left with only the clothes we were wearing that day.

We did not have renters insurance. Everything we owned was gone.

Since the fires, we have been displaced more than 20 times, moving from place to place in an attempt to find safety and stability. For a child with severe autism, this level of disruption is devastating. Leo depends on routine, familiarity, and consistency to feel regulated and secure. Each move has taken a toll on his emotional well-being, while I work tirelessly to hold things together for him.

Carrying the Full Weight Alone

In addition to recovering after the fires, I have been navigating this crisis without consistent (lately) financial support from my husband following our separation earlier this year. Until recently, some basic expenses were temporarily covered through emergency FEMA assistance related to the fires. However, that support has now been exhausted. This month, I have not received financial support to cover rent, food, or ongoing household bills, which is why I am urgently seeking help to meet my son’s immediate needs.

I am Leo’s primary and full-time caregiver. He is nonverbal, requires constant supervision, and needs multiple therapies 5+ days a week. I manage every appointment, every meal, every night wake-up, every transition — while also trying to keep a roof over our heads.

This fundraiser exists because I have reached the limits of what one person can carry alone.

Why Stability Is Critical for Leo

Leo only 2,5 has Level 3 autism and depends on structure, routine, and hands-on care to function and feel safe. He relies on me for regulation, communication support, and access to therapies that are essential for his development.

When housing, transportation, or basic needs are unstable, Leo’s progress is directly affected. My priority — every single day — is ensuring he has consistency, safety, and access to the care he needs to have a fair chance in life.

Limited Support System

I do not have family in the United States. My only immediate family member, my mother, traveled from Ukraine at her own expense to help us during this crisis. While her presence has been invaluable emotionally, she is not able to provide financial support.

How the Funds Will Be Used

All funds raised will be used exclusively to meet Leo’s essential needs, including:

• Stable housing and rent

• Food and basic daily necessities

• Transportation for therapy and medical appointments

• Autism-related supplies and sensory supports

A Mother Asking for Help

I am doing everything I can for my son — but love, effort, and devotion are not enough without basic resources. Leo deserves stability, care, and the chance to grow in a safe environment, and right now, I cannot provide that alone.

If you are able to help us, even in a small way, it would mean more than words can express. If you are unable to donate, sharing our story is also deeply appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read and for caring.

With gratitude,

Victoria & Leo