A Sudden Goodbye and an Uncertain Future

In late May, 32-year-old Hajar’s life was turned upside down. Her husband walked out without a word. No goodbye, no savings, no plan. Left behind were three young children, all under the age of seven, and a mother trying to make sense of the pieces.

Since then, Hajar has been both sole caregiver and provider to Fatiha, Adam, and Anas. Her days are filled with childcare, therapy appointments, and managing what little help she can find. “It doesn’t matter if I’m wearing the same clothes. I just care if my kids can go to school,” she says softly.

Therapy, Tuition, and Tough Choices

Each of her children has different needs. Adam, age four, is on the autism spectrum and attends Early Intervention (EI) four times a week. He relies on a bus service to get from childcare to class.

Fatiha, six, had to stop her English support classes after the separation. “She was really sad to leave her friends and teacher,” Hajar shares. “I told her I’m sorry. Maybe we just pray together at home for us to find a way to continue your lessons.”

The school later offered a subsidised rate of $21.90/month. But even that feels like a luxury when every dollar counts. Managing Fatiha’s transport, Adam’s schedule, and her job search is a daily juggling act. Her youngest, Anas, has just started infant care. This is her first small step toward finding work.

Resilient but Stretched Thin

Divorce proceedings are ongoing. Formal financial support from her ex-husband is uncertain. Hajar receives grocery vouchers through her MP’s office and has applied to several agencies, but the help takes time.

Still, she is determined to find work and provide stability. She is actively looking for a job with flexible hours that allow her to meet her children’s care needs. It is no easy feat.

How You Can Help

Hajar is seeking short-term support while she rebuilds:

• Fatiha’s tuition fees – $21.90/month for 6 months
• Adam’s therapy and transport – $10.90/month for 6 months
• Additional needs of the children – $1,270/month of 2 months

Your support will give Hajar the breathing space to find work, stabilise her children’s care, and keep moving forward.

She is doing everything she can. In the meantime, if you can, please give.