Saving the future of a family

Hello, my name is Lara Ghanime, and I want to share our heartfelt story with you in the hopes that you will join us in our fight for a better future. My husband Najib and I are reaching out to raise funds to save our family's right to live and be productive members of the community we call home. The funds we receive will be used to cover the government fees associated with our two daughters' visas and my right to work. Any additional amount will go towards alleviating the impact of 4 months being on a single income.

Our journey began in March 2021 when I was offered a sponsored job here in the UK under a skilled worker Tier II family visa. It was an incredible opportunity, and we were filled with hope for the future. However, in February 2023, I faced the devastating news of being made redundant. Suddenly, our stability was thrown into disarray, and we found ourselves fighting for our right to remain in the UK.

What makes this situation even more challenging is the impact it has on our daughters. Our 6-year-old daughter Rita had settled so well into her school and discovered her exceptional artistic skills. Our youngest, Veronica, was born on September 8, 2021, and we have witnessed her flourishing in this amazing community we now call home. For their sake, we are determined to navigate through these obstacles and secure our place here.

Despite my 16+ years of experience in education, finding another employer who could provide the same sponsored work proved to be an uphill battle. In the face of adversity, I refused to give up on my passion for working with teenagers. As a result, I am currently volunteering at an SEN (Special Educational Needs) school, as I don't have the right work permit. It is an opportunity for me to contribute and make a difference, even though it's without financial compensation.

Thankfully, Najib's company has come forward with an offer to sponsor him, ensuring his visa and right to work. However, the financial burden of covering my visa, the children's visas, and my right to work has fallen squarely on our shoulders. Unfortunately, the total fees required amount to a staggering £8000. After four months of living on a single income, struggling to pay for rent, childcare, and bills, we have reached a point where our resources are depleted, and our situation seems impossible.

Today, the future and stability of our family of four hang in the balance. Returning to our home country, Lebanon, is not a viable option due to the political and economic turmoil it currently faces. Doing so would shatter the dreams we have built here—a dream where Najib utilizes his innate coaching talent and passion for football, where I continue working with teenagers and making a positive impact, where Rita's artistic talent flourishes, and where Veronica's development is nurtured.

By donating to our cause, you will be helping us cover the fees for our family's visas and support our right to work. Your contribution will not only save our family from an uncertain fate but also ensure that we can continue contributing to the community that has welcomed us with open arms.

We understand that times are tough for everyone, and we sincerely appreciate any support you can offer. Together, we can overcome this hurdle and secure a bright future for our family. Your kindness and generosity will forever be etched in our hearts. Thank you for standing with us in our fight for a better tomorrow.