Hi, my name is Sofia. I am 32 years old and live in Stockholm with my two young sons, who are 5 and 3 years old. A little over a year ago, I finally found the strength to leave their father after years of neglect, violence, and a deeply destructive relationship. He is also struggling with addiction, which made our home environment unsafe and unpredictable.

Recently, the children and I moved into a new home, trying to build a fresh start. But because of the financial abuse I endured for years, I have no savings left and I am now in debt. I was forced to pay for all our shared expenses—everything for the children, food, rent, bills—and even give him “loans” just to keep him from ending up in debt collection.

Today we are living month-to-month, and I often have to buy groceries on credit because my income simply doesn’t last. Despite owing me large amounts of money, he hasn’t paid back a single krona, nor does he contribute anything to the children’s needs.

I am doing everything I can to provide a stable, loving life for my boys, but right now it feels like I’m constantly fighting just to keep us afloat. My biggest wish is to give them a safe childhood—free from violence, addiction, and poverty. They’ve already been through too much. They shouldn’t have to suffer because I ended up in financial hardship after years of abuse.

I’m reaching out with all the hope I have left: if you’re able to help me, even in a small way, it would mean more than I can ever express. Please help me rebuild our lives now that I have finally escaped. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

With love,

Sofia