My name is Itzia, and I am reaching out for help during one of the most difficult times in my life. My son's father, Carlos, is currently in immigration detention, and I have retained an attorney to help us fight for his return. As someone who went through this myself as a child, this situation is deeply triggering and painful. When I was young, no one was there to help me and my siblings during such a difficult time—we were left to fend for ourselves, and I remember having the water shut off, and the electricity and gas cut off at some point in the home we lived in. Sometimes, we were left not knowing if we were going to have money to eat that day. It lasted a few months before anyone noticed we needed help. Now, I am seeing my son go through this, but this time I am the one who is here to help and do everything within reach to keep his father present for Emilio and his sister.

Although Carlos and I have been separated for a few years, we have co-parented well for our son because he is who matters most. I know he has done the same with the mother of his daughter. Carlos has always shown his appreciation toward me and the mother of his daughter for our role in his children’s lives.

Carlos is a hardworking man and an amazing and supportive father. He is also an amazing, creative sushi chef and has taught other chefs his knowledge to help them grow as chefs as well. He has always done his best to provide for his family and be present in his children's lives. The funds raised will be used specifically to pay for attorney fees, which are a major expense, as well as additional fees required by immigration for Carlos’s process. I have already signed a contract with the attorney and have borrowed money just to get the process started. I am working 45-50 hours a week to make more money to pay down the attorney and take care of Emilio, but the financial burden is overwhelming.

I am asking for my community’s help because I truly believe no child should have their parent ripped away from them. I am also committed to spreading awareness and sharing information to help other families who are trying to locate loved ones in immigration detention. I am extremely grateful for anyone who finds it in their heart to donate or share our story. Your support means the world to us and brings us hope during this challenging time.