Hello, my name is Alicia Reynoso, and I am twenty-six years old. I am currently in the process of obtaining guardianship of my two younger siblings, Rolando (15) and Ciclaly (14).

This past year, our family experienced a devastating loss. Our mother was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer and passed away on May 25th after a courageous battle. During her final months, I made the difficult decision to quit my job and pause my education to care for her while she was on hospice.

Following her passing, my siblings went to live with our aunt and uncle so that I could return to Chico, complete my prerequisites, and prepare to apply to a nursing program. Unfortunately, our family has faced yet another hardship. My aunt has recently been diagnosed with stage four cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy, with radiation treatment to begin soon.

Because of this, I made the decision to file for guardianship of my siblings so they would not have to relive the trauma of watching another caregiver battle a terminal illness. I also wanted to relieve my uncle of the responsibility of raising two teenagers while he focuses on caring for his wife and providing for their household. The court granted me temporary guardianship, recognizing that I am the most stable and appropriate caregiver available. Their father has not been involved in their lives since they were very young, and I have always played an active role in raising them. I could not bear the thought of them entering a system without family or love.

While I am fully committed to caring for my siblings, the reality is that I was not financially or logistically prepared to take on two teenagers so suddenly. I recently began working full-time as a dental receptionist, but one income is not enough to immediately meet the demands of this responsibility. I have applied for assistance through CalFresh, CalWORKs, and emergency housing, but I have faced repeated barriers. Applications have been delayed or denied because my siblings are not yet living with me—yet they cannot live with me until I secure appropriate housing.

At this time, I am living in a spare room with my best friend and her fiancé while actively applying for apartments. Coming up with a deposit and first month’s rent for a three-bedroom apartment on a single income is extremely challenging.

Asking for help is very difficult and deeply vulnerable for me, but I know it is necessary to provide my siblings with the stable, safe, and loving home they deserve. I am committed to being the person they can rely on and to creating an environment where they can finally experience a sense of normalcy and healing. I truly believe this next chapter will be just as healing for me as it will be for them.