My name is Maria, and I’m raising three daughters on my own. My oldest is 12, and my twins are 3. I used to work full time and support my family myself. My mom helped care for the children, but she had to leave the United States. I switched to night shifts to try to keep my job. But working nights while caring for my young children became too difficult, and I had to leave. The twins’ father stopped paying child support. I was left covering all the expenses, and unpaid bills and debt began to pile up. I now clean homes and take any work I can find, doing my best to balance earning a living with raising and caring for my three children. But what I earn isn’t enough to cover our everyday expenses and pay off my debts. With help from Volunteers of America, we now have housing. That has been a huge relief, but I’m still struggling financially. My debts currently total approximately $14,350. This includes $9,000 on my car loan, $850 in credit card debt, an AT&T balance of $3,403.21, and another $1,100 owed for rent. Paying off the car loan is especially important so I don’t lose our car. I need it to get to work and take my children to school, daycare, and medical appointments. Without it, earning a living and supporting my family would be even harder. My fundraising goal is $18,000. After paying these debts, approximately $3,650 would remain for warm clothing, shoes, and our family’s basic needs. Winter is approaching, and we don’t currently have all the warm clothes we need. Asking for help is hard. I’m used to relying on myself, and I’m still working, but right now I can’t get through this alone. I would be grateful for any amount you can give. If you’re unable to donate, please share our fundraiser. Thank you for your support and kindness. I’m deeply grateful to everyone helping me and my girls.