My name is Makenzie, and I am a single mom to an incredibly resilient 10-year-old girl named Emma.

We are currently rebuilding our lives completely from scratch after escaping a severe domestic violence situation. In November, I survived a terrifying attack that finally ended the abuse. My ex is now serving a three-year prison sentence, we have an active protective order in place, and I will be taking the necessary legal steps to make it permanent when it expires this May. While Emma and I are finally physically safe, the financial devastation left in the wake of this trauma has been overwhelming. Before I was able to safely leave, my abuser systematically isolated me—he intentionally destroyed my car's engine and forced me to quit my job in mid-October. I was left with no income, no transportation, and the full weight of providing for my daughter alone.

I have fought incredibly hard to keep a roof over our heads, utilizing every state and local assistance program available (though not much) to get us safely through December and January. However, it is now late February, and those temporary resources have run out. I am facing months of accumulated bills and the urgent need to replace the vehicle that was destroyed. I am drowning in the financial aftermath of his abuse, and Emma and I desperately need a moment to catch our breath so we can actually move forward rather than just playing catch-up.

Despite these immense hurdles, I refuse to be defeated. I am actively doing the work to rebuild our future. I recently completed a Work Ready program and earned my certification for remote work, which is a massive blessing because it will allow me to earn an income while remaining safely at home for Emma. Beyond immediate employment, I am looking toward the long-term: in August 2026, I will begin online college to pursue my dream of becoming a therapist. I also plan to write a book about my experiences. I want to turn my pain into a purpose and eventually help other women navigate their own trauma, healing, and survival.

To bridge the gap between this crisis and our fresh start, I have set a fundraising goal of $15,000. These funds will be strictly used for three vital purposes: Purchasing a safe, reliable used car so we are no longer stranded, catching up on the household bills that have piled up since October, and providing a brief financial safety net to cover our basic living expenses until I officially start my new remote career. Emma deserves a life free from fear, and I am doing everything in my power to give that to her. Whether you are able to donate or simply share our story with your network, your support means the absolute world to us. Thank you for helping us turn our survival into a true success story.