In late May, my brother-in-law Mario went to what we thought was a routine immigration meeting, a step toward finally securing his green card. Instead, it turned into a devastating ambush. He was immediately detained by ICE and is now being held in a detention center in Los Angeles.

The conditions are inhumane. He's only being given water every few hours, and the center operates more like a jail than a holding facility for people like Mario, who have worked hard, built a family, and contributed to this country for decades.

Mario has been in the United States for over 40 years. He’s paid taxes, worked full-time, and most importantly, raised a loving family. He has been married to my sister, Vanessa, for nearly 30 years, and they’ve built a life together centered around their three children: Celeste, Anthony, and Nicholas. All of them still live at home, and Mario has always been their rock, showing up every day as a father, husband, and provider.

His sudden and unjust detention has turned their world upside down. Mario was the primary breadwinner for their family of five. His absence has left a massive financial strain and emotional hole in their home.

Mario is the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. He is honest, hardworking, and deeply loved by everyone who knows him. He's built a life here: a steady job, a home, a family. Everyone who knows him respects him.

We’re asking for your help to get him home.

The funds raised will go directly to:

Attorney fees

Court costs

Mortgage and household bills

Basic living expenses for Vanessa and the children during this crisis

Any amount, large or small, will make a difference.

If you’re unable to donate, please share this with your people. Your support, prayers, and action are what this family needs right now.

From the bottom of our hearts,

Thank you.

Let’s bring Mario home.