Our names are Chris Flores, Harold Flores, and Cecilia Flores, and we are Sebastian’s cousins. We have been with him since he first arrived in the United States at just five years old. We grew up together in the Bronx, New York — as one big family that has always supported one another through everything life brings.
Sebastian came to this country full of energy, curiosity, and kindness — and at 27, that has never changed. He has worked tirelessly to build a life rooted in hard work, purpose, and community. He’s a District Manager for 787 Coffee, a company that reflects his leadership and dedication. Beyond his professional success, Sebastian has become a beloved figure in New York City’s running community — a mentor, organizer, and friend to hundreds of runners.
He has led multiple running clubs, including the Bronx Nomads and the Oval Park Track Club, helping people from all walks of life find connection, purpose, and health through running. He even completed the New York City Marathon, cheered on by friends and community members who know him as someone who shows up for others — always. Sebastian has also organized events like the Men’s Mental Health Run/Walk to promote wellness and belonging, and he has coached dozens of runners free of charge, using his passion to lift others up.
On October 13, while traveling for work from New York to El Paso, Sebastian was unexpectedly detained by Border Patrol at the airport. Since then, he’s been held in ICE custody. Our family is doing everything we can to secure legal representation, gather documentation, and make sure Sebastian has the support he needs to come home safely.
Sebastian has always been the first to help others — whether checking on friends during hard times, supporting families in need, or cheering on runners at the NYC Marathon. He has built his life around helping others, and now he’s the one who needs us to show up for him.
The funds raised here will go toward:
Legal fees and representation (estimated $10,000–$15,000)
Travel costs for us to fly from Boston to El Paso to deliver critical legal documents and attend hearings (~$4,000)
Potential bond costs (estimated between $3,000–$5,000)
Lodging, transportation, and other related expenses during the legal process
We’re setting our fundraising goal at $25,000 to ensure we can cover all immediate and unforeseen costs that come with fighting for his release and supporting him once he’s home.
If you can, please consider donating and sharing this campaign widely. Every contribution — no matter the size — helps bring Sebastian one step closer to home.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and belief in him.
With gratitude,
Chris Flores, Harold Flores, and Cecilia Flores-Hernandez
(Sebastian’s cousins)