Computer for Raya’s Children

A bitter and drawn-out divorce that included physical and verbal abuse, has left Raya, 33, and her three children emotionally traumatized. Raya already suffered from foot problems have handicapped her and cause her constant pain. She is seeing a therapist and takes medications for her physical and emotional problems, but the drugs can make her sleepy and less able to function sometimes.

Raya worked full time in an automobile leasing office until this past summer, when it moved its offices to a different part of the country and laid off its local employees. At the moment, Raya does not have the energy to look for another job.

The divorce required Raya and the children to move to a new apartment. They are still getting adjusted to the small living space. Raya’s lack of income (her former husband is not paying child support) has made it difficult for her to furnish their home. Her seven- and eight-year old children often have homework assignments that require research on the computer, but Raya barely has the space for a laptop, nor does she have enough money to buy one.