Chris Ford

This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to share, but I’m choosing my children’s safety over my silence. After 14 years in an abusive relationship that escalated from verbal abuse to physical violence, I made the decision to leave with my children. We escaped with little more than the clothes on our backs, because I knew we couldn’t stay another day. Since leaving, my daughter Carly has shared heartbreaking information about things she experienced that no child should ever go through. As a parent, I am devastated, but my focus now is making sure both of my children are safe, surrounded by love, and receive the support and therapy they need to heal. Carly is Deaf and has attended the Indiana School for the Deaf for four years. I moved to Indianapolis so she could stay at home every night and not have to live like a college student, but now, with everything that has happened, I have to make the difficult decision to send her to the dorm at the school. Carly is happy with this change, but no mom wants to be away from their child all week. I recently learned that Carly was subjected to abuse by multiple people, which has been devastating. I am trying my best to keep everything together and hold a smile on my face, but my pride has been pushed down and I have to ask for help. My son is also adjusting to a new school, and we are navigating changes in doctors, insurance, and starting over from nothing. We lost our home, our belongings, treasured sentimental items, and even our pets. While those things can be replaced, my children’s peace and sense of security cannot. I am proud to have already found a job, but starting over is expensive and overwhelming. Our biggest needs right now are a safe place to live and reliable transportation. Saving enough for a security deposit and first month’s rent feels almost impossible while staying with my sister, who has generously opened her home to us. Funds raised will help us secure a safe home, support my children as they transition to new schools and therapy, and cover essentials as we rebuild our lives. If you feel led to help my family start over, any amount is truly appreciated. If you’re unable to give, please pray for us and share this post. Every prayer, kind word, and share means more than you know. Thank you for standing with us during this difficult season. I truly believe God is leading us toward a safer, healthier future.