My name is Mikayla, and I'm helping my childhood friend Sonja and her 3 boys raise funds so they may rebuild their lives after leaving an abusive home. This is not an easy story to read but it's the truth, and the truth is why they need help right now.

For 15 years, Sonja lived in an abusive relationship defined by control, isolation, and fear. She was told who she could see, whether she could work, and even if she could spend time with her own family. Her abuser prevented her from going to college, sabotaged any steps toward independence, and used her children as leverage to keep her trapped.

Sonja tried to leave twice before. Each time, she was met with the same reality so many survivors face; a lack of resources, no real guidance on what steps to take, and nowhere safe to land. The system's failure made it easier for her abuser to pull her back under his control.

Recently, the abuse escalated. These photos attached show only a fraction of the pain he has inflicted upon her. With courage and determination, Sonja took her children and left for good, knowing it meant walking away from almost all of their belongings, their home, and any sense of security.

They are now in cramped, temporary housing, no beds of their own, no space to call theirs, and limited resources to restart their lives. Sonja is navigating family court to secure child support and has already secured legal protections, but these processes take time. Right now, she and her boys need immediate help to create stability and safety.

Every dollar of this campaign will go towards helping Sonja and her boys secure living essentials, safe housing, long term transportation, and any childcare assistance so Sonja can begin to establish herself with a job and eventually school.

This is a chance for us to come together and help a mother and her children not just survive but rebuild. Sonja's bravery got them to safety, now they need our help to find stability and hope again.

Please consider donating or sharing this campaign. Every act of kindness brings them one step closer to a safe, new beginning.

** TRIGGER WARNING **

The following are images of documented abuse to the mother. This occurred in front of the 3 children, prompting her to leave that night with only the clothing on their backs. Please help anyway you can.