NJ-2025-0112: FAMILY BACKGROUND: A 34-year-old mother shouldering the emotional and financial responsibility of raising three daughters through one of the most painful years of their lives

FAMILY BACKGROUND:
A 34-year-old mother shouldering the emotional and financial responsibility of raising three daughters through one of the most painful years of their lives. Since her separation, she has been solely responsible for every bill, crisis, and decision. One of her daughters has been battling serious mental health challenges that have shaken the household, leaving her other children exposed to fear and emotional turmoil no child should face. She has spent countless nights comforting each of them while trying to stay strong despite her own mounting anxiety, panic attacks, and exhaustion.
Her personal mental health has deteriorated as she has remained in constant survival mode, unable to access therapy due to financial strain and caregiving demands. A toxic and emotionally abusive work environment intensified her trauma until she bravely spoke up, leading to her supervisor’s removal. Still, the emotional damage remains, layered on top of past PTSD from domestic violence.
Financially, the pressures have been relentless. Her SNAP benefits were cut, forcing her to cover her oldest daughter’s school meals. She used her savings to purchase a car for her eldest—not as a luxury, but so she could transport her younger sisters and prevent the risk of losing her job. She pays for the car insurance and gas, stretching her already unstable budget even thinner.
Despite everything, she pushes forward, leaning on faith and focusing on keeping her daughters safe and emotionally supported. She asks for nothing for herself, only a Christmas that brings her girls joy, comfort, and a reminder that they are loved. Support this year would lift an enormous burden and help her daughters feel the happiness and peace they’ve been missing.

CITY: Mine Hill Township
COUNTY: Morris County
HOUSEHOLD SIZE: 4

HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD:
Age: 34
Sex: Female
Clothing Size: Women’s 8
Shoe Size: Women’s 8.5
Wishlist: Cozy pajamas (M), new pillows, socks, sports bras (M), oversized cardigans (M), candles, essential oils, Bible journal/highlighters, weighted blanket, hand massager, fidget toy, and Amazon or Target gift cards.

CHILD #1:
Age: 13
Sex: Female
Clothing Size: Teen 11
Shoe Size: kid 4
Wishlist: Pink twin comforter set and sheets, pink curtains, floating shelves, Tree Hut lotion/scrub, Sephora/Aerie/Ross gift cards, pajama sets, winter boots/snowsuit/long jacket (XS–S), Nike socks, UGG Minis (size 4), adult small hoodies, makeup and organizers, hair tools/products, stylish glasses, and Rhode milky toner.

CHILD #2:
Age: 10
Sex: Female
Clothing Size: Girls 14
Shoe Size: Big Kid 5
Wishlist: Pink twin bedding, curtains, PJ sets, winter gear (boots/snowsuit/jacket), gift cards (Sephora/Aerie/Ross/Barnes & Noble), Nike socks, curly-hair products, UGG Minis, small hoodies, chapstick/lotion/Bath & Body Works, LEGOs, blind boxes, Gatorade GX bottle, cash register toy, Polaroid camera, and Rhode milky toner.

CHILD #3:
Age: 17
Sex: Female
Clothing Size: Girls 6
Shoe Size:  9
Wishlist: Aerie/Sephora/Pacsun gift cards, MOD perfume, digital camera, Adidas Sambas (8.5), lip liners, adult M sweats/PJs/jackets (North Face or pleather), Rhode toner, socks, and hair brush/heat protectant.