Hi, my name is Ruben, and I’m a single Dad who has always worked hard to provide stability for my daughter. I never imagined I would need to ask for help like this but discrimination in the workplace has left me with no other choice. I’ve always relied on hard work, education and community service to move forward in life. I worked my way through college, graduated from the University of the Pacific, attended law school for over a year, and began pursuing my master’s degree. But right now, I’m struggling in a way I never expected — and I can’t get back into my master’s program unless I have a stable job to support my daughter and myself. That dream is on hold because of what happened to me.

For years, I’ve dedicated myself to political organizing and community work in Stockton: Josh Harder’s campaign, Rhodesia Ransom’s campaign, North Valley Labor Federation, Education San Joaquin, and most notably, the Mario Enriquez for Stockton City Council campaign. This work wasn’t a hobby — it was how I supported my daughter. It was my full-time income. My career. My future. During the Enriquez campaign, I was treated unfairly and devalued because of my circumstances as a single parent and ultimately lost income and job opportunities because of it. I was hired under a contract, and when things went wrong, I lost not just my job, but my stability and the future I was working so hard to build for my family.

To make matters worse, my car was hit and totaled by a DoorDash driver. I had a back injury, neck injury, concussion and had to visit the chiropractor over 25 times. After 2 MRI's, a visit to a neck and back specialist, I pursued legal action, but after months, I received only a small settlement — not nearly enough to replace what was lost. I was only able to cover rent for 2 months after medical liens and attorney fees were paid. Since then, I have applied to jobs countless times, have depleted my unemployment benefits and still haven’t been able to regain stability. Right now, I’m asking for help to keep a roof over our heads, provide for my daughter and cover basic living expenses while I secure work. I need help right now as I have been unable to secure a job also due to discrimination. I have to sue my graduate school just to return and finish my degree. I’m not asking for luxury, just the chance to stand back up. My dream is to finish my last 2 classes and earn my master’s degree, secure a real career and give my daughter the stable life she deserves. I want her to see that her father never gave up, even when life knocked him down. Your kindness will help us get through this painful chapter and move toward a future filled with purpose, dignity and hope.

If you believe parents should not be punished for caring for their children and that discrimination should have consequences, I ask for your support. Every donation, share and message of encouragement helps more than you know. Thank you for standing with a single dad who refuses to stay silent.

With gratitude,

Ruben Cruz