BANGOR — The Bangor community is working together to raise money for a pregnant mother who recently escaped an abusive relationship.
Being in an abusive relationship can be a terrifying experience. For Angela Reed, she never imagined being a single parent until one day she said enough is enough.
“I left in February and it was not an option for me to go back,” said Reed.
Mother Angela Reed had been in an abusive relationship for two years.
In the midst of the relationship, she found out she was pregnant again but had no where else to turn.
“He was already struggling with alcohol and stuff like that. I was already in and out because I didn’t like how he would drink. Then he would drink and black out in front of his daughter,” said Reed.
Reed said she didn’t realize domestic violence is not always physical and didn’t see the red flags until becoming involved with Partners for Peace.
“I saw how much he was willing to compromise her safety to hurt me. I thought it’s not even about her, it’s about hurting me,” she said.
Reed said she was forced to leave the relationship for the safety of her daughter.
“Sometimes I thought, I’m not going to have a job, I don’t have a house, or anything to provide for them. But I want them to know they are loved and care for,” said Reed.
Since her departure in February, she’s been on several job interviews, and got connected with Penquis for rent assistance.
Bangor City councilor AngelaOkafor noticed her struggle and decided to help by creating aGoFundMe page.
“It was very touching. Her background, the things she’s been through, it resonated with me. There was no way I couldn’t have at least tried,” said Okafor.
Reed only has 15 days until she is removed from the hotel Penquis provided for her.
Okafor said several community members have reached out to donate strollers, baby food and more for the bundle of joy on the way.
“It kept my faith restored knowing people who I didn’t even know reach out to me,” said Reed.