I never imagined I would be in a position where I would need to ask for help, but life has taken me down a path I never expected.

For over ten years I lived in an abusive relationship with someone who moved in as a roommate. As soon as the door was locked he kidnapped me from my life, my friends and even my family. The abuse affected every part of my life—emotionally, mentally, financially, and physically. Like many survivors, I stayed because I had no other option, he kept me from working so I had to depend on him for basic daily survival and because I was afraid, isolated, and unsure how I would survive on my own. I knew every day for those ten years that I was one day going to leave as soon as the opportunity came. I knew that if I wanted a chance at a safer and healthier future, I had to escape.

When I finally left, I did so with very little. I walked away from the life I knew in order to protect myself and begin healing. While leaving gave me freedom and safety, it also came with enormous challenges. The financial control and instability caused by the abuse left me without the resources I needed to rebuild my life. I tried doing it on my own which has resulted in thousands of dollars being stolen from me by slumlords who prey on those less fortunate. I now have two evictions and a bankruptcy on my record because of the financial abuse I have suffered so I have NO chance of ever renting again.

Today, I am facing homelessness. Despite working hard to move forward, I am struggling to secure stable housing and meet basic daily needs. Every day is a battle to find safety, maintain hope, and keep moving forward while carrying the emotional scars of what I have survived. I have a wonderful career and I am trying to rebuild my life slowly. I have worked hard my entire life and never asked anyone for anything but I am truly out of options at this point.

I am not sharing my story for sympathy. I am sharing it because I need help getting through this difficult chapter. Any support received through this fundraiser will go toward securing safe housing, transportation, food, essential personal items, and the costs associated with rebuilding my independence.

Surviving domestic violence required courage I never knew I had. Now I am asking for help so I can continue that journey and create a stable future for myself. Your donation, your prayers, and even sharing my story can make a meaningful difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting my path toward safety, healing, and a fresh start. Your kindness reminds me that even after the darkest experiences, there is still hope.

With gratitude,

Teri Evans