My name is Sonya Mendoza, and I never imagined I would be telling my story this way. After 22 years of marriage, my world changed abruptly and painfully when my marriage ended due to infidelity. Over the past year, I have been navigating an emotionally overwhelming divorce while doing everything I can to hold my family together for the sake of my five children.

For over two decades, I was a stay-at-home mother. I worked part-time so I could be present for school mornings, doctor’s appointments, practices, and the quiet moments when my children needed me most.

Today, I am a single mother working full-time, carrying not only the financial responsibility for my family, but also the emotional weight of helping my children process the loss of the only life they have ever known. I have full custody, and their father has been granted very limited visitation.

Staying in our current home has become emotionally draining and financially impossible. Each day here feels heavier, and I can see the toll it takes on my children. I am trying to move them into a safe, peaceful home where we can begin to heal but the upfront cost of moving is something I simply cannot manage on my own.

The greatest obstacle is the security deposit and first month’s rent, the largest single financial burden a single mother can face, especially while still paying rent where we currently live.

To secure a new home, I need:

Security Deposit: $4,976

First Month’s Rent: $4,976

This brings our immediate need to just under $10,000.

There is also a very real time constraint. To secure this apartment, I must provide a cashier’s check by January 28th for the security deposit and first month’s rent. If I am unable to meet this deadline, we will lose the opportunity to move into this home and will have to start the search over again ..something that would be emotionally devastating for my children and financially impossible for me right now.

My children are my strength and my purpose.

* Cyan (20) is a college student majoring in Psychology, compassionate and wise beyond her years.

* Jade (18) is a high school senior who also plans to study Psychology, thoughtful and determined.

* Marcellino (16) is a high school junior who shines in musical theatre and brings creativity into our home.

* Capri (13) is an 8th grader who loves basketball and her pet tortoises, full of humor and heart.

* Luminous (11) is a 6th grader passionate about sports, especially basketball and running, energetic and bright.

They are strong, loving, and resilient but they are also children who have been asked to endure far more than they should. They deserve a place where they feel safe, grounded, and hopeful again.

I have reached out to family for help, but my parents are unable to assist financially as they are currently facing significant medical expenses following my brother’s recent Stage 4 cancer diagnosis.

Asking for help is not easy. I have always been the one to figure things out, to push through, to put my children first no matter the cost. But right now, I cannot do this alone. If anyone is willing to help through a donation, a loan, or even by sharing our story, it would mean the world to us. For those who may prefer to offer a loan, I am absolutely willing and committed to repaying it as I regain stability.

Your kindness will help give my children more than just a new place to live....it will give them a sense of safety, peace, and the chance to begin healing.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read our story and for standing with us during this incredibly difficult chapter.

With appreciation and gratitude ,

Sonya