Help a Single Mom of 5 Make a House a Home

Two years ago, I fled an extremely abusive, and coercive marriage with my four kids and at 12 weeks pregnant. I am now a single mother to five children living here in Ireland. I am originally from California and all my family still resides in the states. I cannot return to the states due to the UN’s Hague Convention on the Protection of Children. I have continued to navigate the family law courts and a criminal investigation all during this time. This has been challenging to say the least, but eight months ago we were presented with the harrowing reality of becoming homeless as our landlord was selling the home/land we live on. After months and months of searching in desperation for a home by the grace of God with only five days before our termination date on April 9th we received news that we would be moving into a new home.

But the home is not finished being built and won’t be ready for the foreseeable. It is also just a shell- there is no floors, no appliances, fixtures, etc. So I will need to have all this installed before moving in. In the interim while we wait the kids and I are living in a one bedroom homeless accommodation.

We are so blessed and grateful for the provision of a home, it is not for one second lost on me. I believe so wholeheartedly in the power of prayer and community but we are in need of help and this is where I am asking friends, family, and strangers to help fill in the financial gaps.

We have no family in Ireland to help with this move and being on my own with five young children, it is going to be an incredible feat to accomplish this move. For the last two years I have relied on the village - the community I have found in Ireland and so I am putting pride and ego aside to humbly ask on behalf of my children and I for help from all who have prayed for us, held us in their thoughts, have followed along from afar or been here boots on the ground helping my family and fighting for my children. This next chapter, one of new beginnings and peace will be one that is shared by all.

In whatever capacity those that can help is so so appreciated. Whether that is a financial contribution which will go directly into the house (furniture, beds, mattresses, appliances, floors and the labor costs to do this).

Or if it is volunteering time to help pack, move boxes/furniture, or even a meal to take some of the stress off while we are currently living in temporary accommodation.

Or if you know a handyman or can volunteer your man to help install floors, lights, do the heavy lifting of furniture, borrow a van, etc.

I so appreciate the generosity of all who can help make this house a home

With sincere gratitude,

Rachel + the kiddos xx