Dear Editor,

I am a single mother of three young children, and every single day has become a battle for our survival.

I write out of sheer desperation, hoping to shine a light on the invisible struggles that many single parents like myself are facing daily in Manchester.

​Despite my constant efforts and willingness to work, finding employment within the parish has proven to be an impossible task. The job market here feels locked to people in my position. To make matters worse, trying to access government social assistance or any form of State aid has been a road map of red tape that has yielded absolutely nothing for my children.

​What hurts the most is the breakdown of our community support systems. We are often told to turn to the Church in times of trouble; however, my experience has shown me that assistance from local church communities is not based on actual need, but seems reserved only for a selected few who fit a certain profile or have the right connections.

​Where does this leave a mother who is simply trying to feed, clothe, and provide a future for three innocent children?

​I am raising my voice not just for myself, but for the many other mothers in Manchester who are suffering in silence. We do not want handouts; we want opportunities to work, fair access to social welfare, and a community that actually practices the Christian charity it preaches.

I am imploring the relevant authorities and well-wishers to look closer at what is happening to struggling families in this parish. We need help, and we need it now.

​Sophia Brown

Richmond in Manchester

blessbrown51@gmail.com