A single mother’s fundraising campaign has sparked heated debate online after she requested $40,000 to build a self-sustainable dream home for her family.
A single mother of four has sparked online controversy. She launched a GoFundMe campaign, asking for $40,000 to build her “dream home.”
While some supported her cause, others criticized her approach, calling it “shameless.”
The controversial GoFundMe campaign
Kara-Louise Hoppo, a co-founder of Free in the NT, posted her fundraiser on a local Facebook page.
‘We are in a bit of a housing predicament and I’m manifesting that we’re going to get out of those permanently this year. I’ve found a way, but I cant do it without help,’ Ms Hoppo wrote to her Facebook.
The campaign aimed to fund the purchase and setup of demountable homes on a friend’s property. After mixed reactions, she removed the post from the page but kept the fundraiser active.
Hoppo’s GoFundMe page explained her plan to buy two waterproof demountables with steel cladding, already fitted with essential facilities.
She intended to use the remaining funds to purchase a third unit, transport all three to the site, and set them up.
Ms. Hoppo explained her current living situation and future plans in the campaign.
Hoppo stated that her family needed to move due to health and safety issues at their current location. She emphasized her desire to keep her children in their current school.
Despite financial challenges, she is pursuing a new-age healing course, hoping to start a business soon.
In a follow-up update, she mentioned an alternative option—affordable “pop-out” homes costing $33,000. This new option might help her achieve her goal more efficiently.
Public reactions to the fundraiser
The campaign drew widespread criticism after local outlet The Mango Inquirer shared it. Comments accused Hoppo of seeking “free rides” and suggested she find a job instead.
Many labeled the fundraiser as “shameless” and criticized her for seeking public donations. Comments included calls for her to find employment or assist others in greater need.
Additionally, some questioned if the donations would affect her government support.
One person said: What’s the problem? Lack of housing is an actual crisis. No? I’d hardly call a demountable on a friends land due to hardship a “dream home” good luck to her.
A second wrote: Good for her. What working class person can afford their dream home these days? It used to be attainable, even at a working class job nowadays good luck.
While a third commented: Well if I was going to help anyone get their dream home, I would be doing it for me or my family. I wouldn’t be funding it for her, but good luck to her
Another added: She had the courage to ask, I like that. No one is obliged to donate so move on if it offends you. I wish her success and a happy life with her children.
Someone else said: Fairplay to her for trying to survive and make a home for herself sending Best Wishes for the future.
A relative came to Hoppo’s defense, explaining her dire circumstances. They highlighted her efforts to help others, such as coordinating donations for homeless Christmas meals.
The debate surrounding Hoppo’s GoFundMe reflects divided opinions on crowdfunding personal projects.
While some sympathize with her challenges, others view the campaign as inappropriate. Regardless, the story sheds light on the growing reliance on community funding for personal needs. ………