Story
Just over a year ago, mother made the brave decision to leave an abusive relationship to protect herself and her children. She left with little more than her strength, resilience, and a deep desire to heal and build a better future. This meant starting over emotionally, physically, and financially. Despite the trauma and hardship, mother is fully engaged in court-ordered services and every step of the reunification process. After nearly a year of unwavering commitment, she regained custody of her children. Mother has received no financial assistance or contact from the children’s father. She now parents full-time on her own. From February through May, she and her children experienced homelessness and couch surfing with relatives. Through it all, the mother shielded her children from instability, creating a positive environment that felt like extended sleepovers. With help from the Department, she recently secured a two-bedroom apartment. However, having left most of her belongings behind, she is starting from scratch. While she’s grateful for stable housing, the financial burden remains overwhelming. A dining room table is more than furniture it represents family, routine, and healing. A table offers a space for meals, conversations, and memory-making. It’s a place to celebrate birthdays, reflect on daily moments, and simply be together. They are starting over, and a dining table would be a symbol that they are still a family—strong, united, and supported.