Hello,
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for even considering supporting me during this time. 

As many of you know, I am currently a single mom of three in the middle of the divorce process. This has happened during a time where we are all navigating the financial climate that the COVID-19 pandemic has created. Out of necessity and for the safety of my family I chose to step out into this process after years of being too fearful to do so. 

Divorce is altogether a difficult financial burden for anyone, and as a friend so clearly pointed out to me, "No one saves their money preparing for divorce."
I certainly didn't, I was all in in my marriage and did everything that I could to save it, and heal our family. I didn't anticipate that I would be in the current position that I am in; but there came a point where I could see clearly that my biggest priority is my safety and that of our daughters. So I pursued legal protection on my own with free resources and then retained legal counsel out of necessity. Though I have not been financially prepared, I have seen God come through in miraculous ways! All of the details that came together, and with each step that I've taken forward, I've been met with exactly what I need. Most of this has come through my own ability to make an income through photography which I am SO thankful for. It is a huge blessing to me and our daughters for me to still be able to be so present with them as our family dynamic has been unsteady over these last two years.

Though I was not set up to be the main provider for everything we need, I have had the ability to do so over these last four months of being in this process and I have also been able to pay some of my own legal fees. 

However, I'm now at the end of my own personal resources and with the counsel and urging of a few dear friends, I have decided to reach out to you to ask for your support. 

I am confident that God can make a way when there is seems to be no way. I have seen him make one for me time and time again. This situation is no different. For many years I lived in fear for my life and though some of that still remains even with distance, I know that God's desire for me is to not live that way. As I have been praying I have been reminded of the ways he has always defended me and protected me, it has encouraged me to know that He is present and at work even now. I know that He is going to come through. Will you step into believing this alongside me? Even if we don't share the same faith background; will you borrow my faith for a minute and stand with me?

At this time, I need to raise $10,000 to pay for my outstanding balance toward my legal fees, to resupply my retainer in full and to pay toward future legal fees over the course of the next few months. 

Initially this number has seemed very intimidating, especially if I start to think of trying to make it happen on my own by the end of the week. Honestly, if I think of it that way it seems absolutely impossible because I know that on my own it is unattainable.

My biggest responsibility right now is to continue to provide my family's financial needs. I am so thankful that for the last few months I have successfully been able to do this through my photography company. I have not worked a normal 9-5 since the summer of 2016 and I am working hard to keep going with full-time photography to maintain this. I am thankful for the opportunity to work from home so that I can continue to be present for these precious girls. I believe it is exactly what we all need during this time of healing and restoration.

Like I mentioned earlier a friend of mine said " No one ever saves money for a divorce." I didn't plan to be here, but I am not alone. 

I do not have the benefit of asking my parents to help me, as they both have passed away, and unfortunately circumstances like this are a reminder of that. I do however believe that God has provided family to me from FAR & WIDE. Each one you are gifts to me. I am honored to know you and for those who are just becoming acquainted with my story, to have you extend your support to me in this time where I need a miracle to happen. 

Would you consider supporting me with even the cost of a meal for you at your favorite restaurant? In doing so, would you partner with me to end the cycle of abuse that has touched my family? Your gift of $15, $20, $30 may not seem like very much but it can make a HUGE impact to me and my family right now.

Throughout this process, and even before I was ready to make the hard decisions I have had to in order to live in safety: These statements were spoken over me.

"You will have an army of people to support you." 
"There will be a lot of people who will have your back." 
"God is going before you."
"God is going to fight for you & for your family."
"You won't have to fight for yourself." 

See, I need your support. This is why I can't give up. And this is exactly why I'm asking you in this GoFUNDme letter.

Recently, when my friend asked me to make this page; she specifically said that God has an army of people who want to support me financially through this time.

So here I am, looking at the face of this army, literally you right now, my kin and I'm asking you if you will stand in this gap, fulfill these words spoken over me and BE that army?

I believe God is going to come through, and I believe if you're reading this right now that He called you to be a part of this.

Whether it's $5 or $500, God can use that small act of faith in a HUGE way in my life, and for my girls. For me, this means a huge step toward freedom. In a very tangible way, it will give me freedom from the cycle of abuse I've experienced, and will stop it from continuing. 

And I'm telling you I know without a shadow of a doubt it will have a ripple effect into the lives of so many. Because if you know me, you know that I will sow it back. I will stand up and fight alongside others going through this, and I will share my story in the hope that it helps the healing journey of others. And mostly, so that others can see why Jesus is it for me.

Thank you so much. 
I appreciate you more than you know. 

Warm Hugs, 
Sophia