Help A Mom Escape Domestic Violence
I am a mom in North Carolina watching another mom suffer domestic violence at the hands of a controlling, angry, and often violent man. There are 3 children involved and they are suffering. None of this is new, it's been happening for as long as we can remember.
What is new? Her ability to see this as abuse AND her desire to leave. With the support of a close knit group of friends, she's worked with local resources to create an escape plan that is safest for herself and her children. For a wounded, terrified mother with minimal resources, this is the biggest step to a successful departure.
Why so vague? Her abuser doesn't know she is leaving but he's somewhat aware of her activity online. We've taken extreme precaution to keep her identity hidden.
What does she need? To date, she's never directly asked for any sort of help from us. We've listened to her and made offers but she's been too shy to actually ask outright. Recently, she asked if there was any way we could come up with $5000 to hire a lawyer. We've spent much time doing research to determine what pro bono options are available or what lower cost options are available and we've talked to a few experts in this area. The bottom line is this: Her options are few and this specific lawyer is excellent, understands the subtleties of her abuse, and is absolutely the best option in this particular set of circumstances.
Why does this matter? For the majority of her life, she never felt valued or important. Recently, that's beginning to change. Providing these funds for her will be life changing from a self-esteem perspective. As in, her faith in fellow humans will be partially restored in a very tangible way. She's constantly in awe that others want to help HER. Being able to proceed with this lawyer and take the biggest step of her life with the trusted professional at her side is the best thing we can do for her. Just $5 sends that message to her and we embrace small donors.
Why is the goal above $5000? Relocating a large family isn't free and until her financial situation becomes stable, additional funds will be required. If possible, providing her the money to rent a moving truck ($250), purchase groceries for a month ($500), pay her first bills and rent ($1400), and have some gas money ($100) would be absolutely incredible. (These are extras, she's smart and capable and will figure these out on her own, if necessary.) In addition, this is only the first step of legal worries. Any money gathered in addition to the lawyer fee and initial living expenses will be used for the contining legal proceedings that ensure the children are provided for and ensure that the custody arrangement is safe.
When do we need the initial $5000? Like yesterday. It's a bit of a time crunch. We have raised a total of $2000 through personal contributions. Obviously, this isn't even half but we are confident that reaching out a little wider will help us make this happen for her.
