UPDATE 14/3/25 : Thanks to all for your incredible generosity. The fund now covers Becky’s costs so we have stopped taking donations. More information about Becky’s situation will follow in due course. As promised any surplus will be donated to charities in the Seattle area helping people in similar situations. Thank you again for your support.

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Hey everyone,

We need your help to bring our amazing Becky Burke home. Becky, a 28-year-old artist from Monmouthshire, set off on the trip of a lifetime across North America - but things have taken a horrible turn.

What Happened?

While traveling, Becky was staying with host families which she found through a cultural exchange co-ordination website. She helps with chores in exchange for accommodation - something loads of backpackers do to help funds and gain cultural experience. Host families will often use this opportunity to share cultural experiences with travellers and not require anything in return other than helping out as a typical housemate would.

But when she tried to cross into Canada, she was denied entry due to them perceiving this as requiring a work VISA and told to return to the U.S.

Instead of a quick fix, she was detained by U.S. immigration authorities and has now been stuck in a detention centre since 26th February. She is facing tough conditions, having had all her possessions removed, only eating cold beans and potatoes (she is vegan) and is only allowed visitors through a screen and phone.

Why We’re Raising Money

Becky’s family is doing everything they can to get her home, working with MPs and the Foreign Office, but legal support is expensive. She needs a good immigration lawyer, expert advice, and funds to help her get by while she’s detained.

We’re raising money for:

• Legal fees – to get a great lawyer who can fight for Becky’s release.

• Advisory support – to help navigate the complicated visa situation.

• Money for Becky – so she can get food, essentials, and stay in touch with family.

• A flight home.

• If we're fortunate enough to have left over money we will be looking at donating this to charities in the Seattle area that helps people in a similar situation.

How You Can Help?

Every little bit counts - whether it’s a donation or just sharing this page. Becky is stuck in a nightmare, and we need to do everything we can to get her home.

Let’s show Becky she’s not alone. Thank you so much for your support!