We are raising money for legal fees for Clemente Ortiz, and living expenses for his wife, Maria. 

I met Clemente when I hired him as a contractor to do work on our house. He is hands down the best contractor I have ever met. He is kind and quiet, a perfectionist, and always respects all of my ideas, despite how challenging they may be to achieve. His work ethic is intense. He shows up early and leaves late and works seven days per week. He has built an incredible business here in New Orleans.

Clemente and his wife are from Guatemala. He came here with his parents at age 15 and this is his home. He filed for asylum in 2015. 

On August 12, Clemente  was picked up by ICE, as well as Maria and her brother. Maria and her brother were released, but Clemente is being held for deportation without any cause. Meanwhile, Maria is working as a hotel maid, but she is desperate without Clemente's income, and desperate to keep their family in New Orleans.

We have a pro-bono immigration attorney from Alabama working his case. However, he needs a bond hearing in New Orleans which costs about $5,000, and there are many other costs that are arising. If there is additional funding it will help support Maria with rent and groceries.

Clemente and Maria are incredibly grateful to know that they have the support of new and old friends from New Orleans and beyond.