My name is Melissa Bottorff-Arey, and I am organizing this fundraiser in support of my son-in-law, David, and his four young children.

In May 2025, the children relocated from Puerto Rico to Vermont with their mother. In the months that followed, David experienced an extended period without contact while navigating the legal process required to establish jurisdiction and file for custody in a new state.

After nearly nine months, he was recently granted an emergency order reestablishing contact with his children. He is now working through the next phase of the court process to secure a temporary and long-term custody arrangement that supports meaningful involvement from both parents and prioritizes the children’s stability.

This process has been emotionally and financially exhausting.

Why We’re Asking for Help

Legal proceedings involving custody across state lines are complex and costly. David is currently responsible for:

• Ongoing legal fees related to custody and divorce

• Court-mandated transportation between homes

• Securing appropriate housing for four children

• Providing furnishings, clothing, and essentials

• Supporting the children’s emotional well-being during this transition

While our family continues to support him however we can, years of prior financial strain have left us limited in what we’re able to contribute.

David is not seeking conflict. He is seeking consistency. He wants to co-parent responsibly and remain actively involved in his children’s education, healthcare, and daily lives.

He believes children benefit from healthy, stable relationships with both parents whenever possible. That is what he is working toward through the legal system.

How Your Support Helps

Every donation goes directly toward legal and housing costs necessary to maintain his parental rights and create a stable environment for the children.

If giving isn’t possible, sharing this page or sending encouragement means just as much.

Thank you for standing with a father who is working through the legal system to stay present in his children’s lives.

With gratitude,

Melissa & Family