I came to America over 15 years ago with big hopes and dreams, newly married and naive. The reality turned out to be different, I went through physical and mental abuse, devastating divorce, custody fight, fight for survival by working two jobs and trying to raise my daughter on my own. I've learned everything the hard way and I'm fighting each and every day to survive. As a foreign woman I have much less of chance to find a good paying job, to afford college education for myself or my daughter. 

I had to accept low paying jobs in order to pay my basic bills. Right now I have an office job that barely pays the bills, sometimes we struggle a lot by being late, having our phone disconnected etc. My daughter's father is a deadbeat and I cannot afford a lawyer to pursue this matter legally. My daughter is now 13 years old, she is a very talented and bright student, always bringing home straight A's. I want to help her to have a better future and not to struggle like this anymore. For example last month all we ate was pasta and rice, because I didn't have enough to buy fruits and vegetables, it was either rent or more food. 

I can't take the time off work during the day to stand in line for food stamps, because I may lose my job, it's very strict and I can't jeopardize it. The only solution I see for us right now is have a little extra to pay my utlities and to be able to get my MBA in 2 years, studying at night. My daughter encourages me to go to school, but I can do that if I had extra funds. I want also for my daughter to be able to take dance classes because she won several regional competitions last year, but this year we are very low on funds due to my medical bills and car repairs. I'm very ashamed to live on such low level, I just want someone to give me and my daughter a better chance in life. I still believe in the American Dream and I'll never lose faith that one day I'll be a manager and make decent salary.

What I'm asking for is a gift of heart for those who are more fortunate than myself and who maybe experienced at some point of their lives what I've been through. I'm a very hard working person and I'm very determined but I run out of options. This is my last chance and I already thank you for your kindness and generosity. If the great day comes for me to breathe I'll absolutely "pay it forward" for those in need. Please help me believe that there are still kind and good people in this world.

Struggling Mom who keeps fighting every day