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Help a Family Rebuild in Venezuela

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In 2024, my path crossed with a kind and resilient Venezuelan family when their two children enrolled at my school. As the Bilingual Program Coordinator, I had the privilege of supporting them as they adjusted to a new country, language, and way of life. With the help of our generous school community, we welcomed them with open arms and did our best to provide stability during an incredibly difficult time.

Despite these efforts, the family faced ongoing challenges—language barriers, the inability to obtain work permits, unstable housing, and the growing threat of ICE raids. Now, a little over a year later, they have been deported to Venezuela and are once again fighting to rebuild their lives.

They’re currently living in an unfinished home offered by a relative, with no basic furnishings. Their children—who have already endured so much trauma, both in their home country and during their brief time in the U.S.—are in urgent need of stability and comfort.

I don’t believe my friendship with this family ends because they’re no longer here. On the contrary, it’s a powerful reminder that every human being deserves the dignity of safety and shelter. I may not be able to fix every injustice, but when something lands on my heart, I try to act.

If you're in a position to give, your support will go directly toward helping the family purchase essentials like beds, kitchenware, chairs, and a table. Monetary donations are the most effective way to help, as it allows them to buy what they need locally.

From the bottom of my heart—thank you. Your kindness will make a world of difference.

With gratitude,
Elisa Tavares Bell

U.S. Dollar to Venezuelan Bolívar Conversion
As of July 1,  2025, 1 USD ≈ 108 Venezuelan bolívares (Bs). That means every $10 donated is worth roughly 1,080 bolívares (Bs).

Estimated Furniture and Kitchenware Costs in Venezuela

Item Approx. Cost (USD) Approx. Cost (VES)
Twin bed (frame & mattress) $100–150 10,800–16,200 Bs
Full/double bed $150–200 16,200–21,600 Bs
Dining table + chairs (4‑person set) $80–120 8,640–12,960 Bs
Kitchenware set (pots, pans, utensils) $40–60 4,320–6,480 Bs

These are rough local-market estimates; availability and pricing can vary depending on region and condition (used vs. new).

✨ What this means for your support:

$100 covers a full bed for one child, giving them a safe, restful place to sleep.

$50 helps outfit the kitchen with basic cooking tools.

$120–150 can fund a full dining set & utensils, giving the family a place to gather around meals at home.

Since donations are sent in USD, converting locally lets the family stretch your gift further—supporting their needs in a way that’s more efficient and flexible than shipping physical items internationally.

Your generosity helps restore comfort, dignity, and stability—one bed, one table, one kitchen at a time.

Thank you!
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    Organizer

    Elisa Bell
    Organizer
    Chicago, IL

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