Like many elders in the United States, Bibi Inaru has been failed by the systems meant to protect her in her later years. In order to survive on a fixed income, she made the difficult decision to leave New York City and relocate to Texas, where rent was more affordable. To afford the move, she sold many of her belongings, including her vehicle. Now, Bibi is isolated. There is no public transportation where she lives. She has spent two years making the best of this reality, but being confined to her home is now affecting her health — mentally, physically, and spiritually. She has come to the hard but honest realization that she needs a vehicle to live with dignity and independence.

A vehicle will allow Bibi to travel for daily chores, visit stores, attend doctors appointments, and participate in cultural events that enrich her life. This support will help her regain her independence and improve her mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

For over 50 years, Bibi Inaru has served the Taino community with devotion, wisdom, and love. Born in Borikén, Bibi was raised in a family that protected and carried forward the stories and sacred practices of our ancestors. That family training became a lifeline for generations of Tainos seeking to reconnect with their roots and reclaim their identity. During the Taino resurgence of the 1990s, Bibi stood on the front lines of cultural restoration. Through Bohio Atabei, she has mentored countless Tainas, helping them step fully into who they are. The Children’s Areito remains one of her greatest joys — a living bridge connecting our ancestors to our descendants. Bibi Ina was also the first Taino to coordinate the Annual Native American Conference celebrating and honoring the voice of Mother Earth at the American Indian Smithsonian Institute, bringing together diverse Native groups. Bibi has spent decades raising funds and showing up for community causes. Today, she is humbly asking for support for herself, so she can regain her independence and continue her important work.

We are calling on the many communities whose lives Bibi has touched to stand with her now. If you are able, please donate. If you cannot donate, please share this campaign widely. Every action helps move Bibi closer to freedom, mobility, and health. Let’s show up for an elder who has spent her life showing up for us. With gratitude and in solidarity,