Angelica has called the Portland community home for the past 17 years. She moved here in 2008 hoping to create better opportunities for her family, and ever since, she has done everything she can to provide for her children. She has worked as a cashier, supported children through arts and crafts programs, and consistently put her family’s needs before her own. Despite her tireless efforts, life has brought her more than its share of challenges. Angelica is a devoted mother to four children—Armando (18), Eduardo (16), Mallillany (15), and Martha-Paula (3).
They are her entire world, and she is their constant source of love and stability. To make ends meet, she collects cans and copper for extra income, and her family of five lives together in a modest three-bedroom home. In December, Angelica was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease that affects the skin, muscles, and lungs. This diagnosis followed months of unexplained symptoms, including severe reactions and hair loss. She is now undergoing treatment and preparing for a mammogram to rule out cancer, an added layer of fear and uncertainty. Alongside this, Angelica manages diabetes, navigates depression, and cares for her youngest daughter, Martha-Paula, who is autistic. Martha-Paula requires weekly speech and occupational therapy, located 30 minutes away in Tualatin. Without access to a working car, these trips now take hours by bus. The long commutes are exhausting for Angelica and especially difficult for Martha-Paula, who struggles with noise sensitivity. What should be supportive care has become a daily strain.
Angelica’s resilience is nothing short of extraordinary. She is a survivor of domestic violence, has lived in shelters, and has worked relentlessly to create a safe, loving home for her children. When her car broke down in December, it became nearly impossible to keep up with medical appointments, therapy sessions, and everyday responsibilities. Reliable transportation would significantly ease her burden, restore a sense of safety, and allow her to continue showing up for her children and herself. As a single mother, Angelica faces each day with courage and determination, but she cannot do it alone.
Your support can help her regain reliable transportation and provide much-needed stability for her family during this critical time. I still remember the first time I met Angelica while delivering Christmas gifts. The gratitude she expressed toward Big Yard was so genuine, it stayed with me long after I left. Being able to support her again would truly be a gift. I promised her I would do everything I could to help and I hope you will join me in showing her that she is not alone.
They are her entire world, and she is their constant source of love and stability. To make ends meet, she collects cans and copper for extra income, and her family of five lives together in a modest three-bedroom home. In December, Angelica was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease that affects the skin, muscles, and lungs. This diagnosis followed months of unexplained symptoms, including severe reactions and hair loss. She is now undergoing treatment and preparing for a mammogram to rule out cancer, an added layer of fear and uncertainty. Alongside this, Angelica manages diabetes, navigates depression, and cares for her youngest daughter, Martha-Paula, who is autistic. Martha-Paula requires weekly speech and occupational therapy, located 30 minutes away in Tualatin. Without access to a working car, these trips now take hours by bus. The long commutes are exhausting for Angelica and especially difficult for Martha-Paula, who struggles with noise sensitivity. What should be supportive care has become a daily strain.
Angelica’s resilience is nothing short of extraordinary. She is a survivor of domestic violence, has lived in shelters, and has worked relentlessly to create a safe, loving home for her children. When her car broke down in December, it became nearly impossible to keep up with medical appointments, therapy sessions, and everyday responsibilities. Reliable transportation would significantly ease her burden, restore a sense of safety, and allow her to continue showing up for her children and herself. As a single mother, Angelica faces each day with courage and determination, but she cannot do it alone.
Your support can help her regain reliable transportation and provide much-needed stability for her family during this critical time. I still remember the first time I met Angelica while delivering Christmas gifts. The gratitude she expressed toward Big Yard was so genuine, it stayed with me long after I left. Being able to support her again would truly be a gift. I promised her I would do everything I could to help and I hope you will join me in showing her that she is not alone.
Organizer
