Maria Vargas is my mother.

She lived in Costa Rica until 1992. She was a single mom with three children and little money. Maria came here to build a better life for her family. For me. 

She went to work cleaning houses. Friends and family can tell you of her tireless work ethic and commitment. She worked through the weekends and on holidays. 

In 1997  she was finally able to buy a home in East Baton Rouge. 

Maria's home was welcome to all. She housed and helped many friends and family in the Latin community over the years. I lived in that home until my own son was 2 years old. 

Two days ago, on August 13th, Maria lost her house, the home I grew up in, where my own son took his first steps, and everything in it. She lost everything that she has been working for 20 years to build.

At  the time of the flood, Maria, my mother, my brother and sister and niece were staying with her, along with two toddlers and two dogs. 

The family and pets were boated out of their home in waist deep water. We are blessed and greatful that they were all rescued safely.
 
However, Maria's Park Forest home and her car are  submergered. This area was a no flood zone and Maria's losses will not be fully covered.

Maria's family would be grateful, I would be grateful, if you can help her secure temporary and immediate housing and assistance. She needs $10,000. She needs it now. 

We know the road to recovery will be long and difficult, but we need to get Maria and my family to higher ground. We need help. 

Your assistance will help her rent an appartment and the means to get around and buy food and necessities for herself and those that are in her care. It will help replace clothes and other basic material goods.

If you are able to give, your generosity will allow someone who is a life-long giver and truly deserving to keep giving her family the better life she has worked for for these many years.  

You can also attend a yoga class  benefitting Maria's family.

If you cannot help financially, thank you for taking the time to read my mother's story. Please share it. 

My family is deeply grateful for any help you can offer. Thank you. 




This is a video taken by Maria during the flooding.

Maria at home. 


Maria and Camila.


Maria and my sister, Marietta.

Maria making empanadas.