June L. is a dear friend, a committed community-builder, a proud Jersey girl, and an outspoken defender of trans rights. But most importantly, she is a devoted mother of two. I have known her for more than three years, and during that time she has in effect been the sole parent to her children. Her divorce proceedings have continued throughout that time, and her ex has been able to drag them out even further. Even though she and her children live in a crowded one-bedroom apartment, she has been ordered by the judge to pay spousal support to her ex, reducing the resources available to provide for the children's well-being. As the process extends, her legal fees mount as well.

For the sake of her children, we are trying to raise a total of $22,000. $20,000 is to defray the costs of legal representation and court-ordered support, as she tries to bring this protracted process to a close. $2,000 is toward the cost of a deposit on a larger apartment, keeping the children close to their friends, teachers, and extracurricular activities in the Somerville school district and maintaining stability for them.

Trans mothers are real mothers. We thank you for your support.