Domestic Violence Survivor Seeking New Start

My name is Julie and I'm a single mom of 4 amazing young children. I recently fled my life in a 12 year abusive marriage. My husband abused me in many ways - physically, sexually, mentally, emotionally, financially and more. Once I escaped I felt like I could finally breathe again, and I was excited to build a new life for myself and my children.

Sadly, I've been struggling severely. I've been diagnosed with PTSD and extreme anxiety from the trauma. I'm also suffering from chronic spinal pain due to the injuries and surgeries to correct it. My husband didn't allow me to have any access to any money, I wasn't allowed to have a job and he ruined my credit. I had been secluded in my home and wasn't allowed out of the house for years. I had been a stay-at-home mom, and my husband made sure any friends or family I had at the beginning were no longer a part of my life.

Doing my best for my family, I started looking for work. I was shocked to find when working or even during an interview that my anxiety and PTSD is debilitating. I have started seeing a professional for these issues, applied for disability (which will take a year or more to be approved) and been trying to explore other income options.

Most importantly, finding a home for my children and I has been next to impossible. My husband was evicted from the home and since we are legally married the eviction is on my credit report as well. The waiting lists for low-income or any housing assistance are so incredibly long that it takes years. Having a lack of options for a long while now, I've been jumping from place to place and even have had to sleep on the street at times.

My only need is to build a happy, loving and safe home for my children. Starting over from scratch with absolutely nothing is incredibly difficult and distressing. However, I believe that with my children by my side, and a little assistance getting started, I'll be able to conquer any challenges ahead.