My name is Valeria, and I am asking for help during one of the most difficult moments our family has ever faced.

On August 11, 2026, my husband, Luijo, was detained by ICE during our marriage-based adjustment of status interview at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City. I am a U.S. citizen, we are legally married, and we have appeared for our scheduled interview together as part of the process of obtaining his permanent residency.

We walked into that building together expecting to continue our immigration process. I never imagined that I would leave without my husband.

We are now urgently seeking experienced immigration counsel to represent Luijo, address his detention and immigration proceedings, and determine every legal option available to bring him home.

Why We Need Help

The financial burden has become overwhelming almost immediately.

Attorneys experienced in detained immigration and removal cases can charge hundreds of dollars just for an initial consultation, followed by substantial costs for representation, motions, court proceedings, filings, and other legal expenses.

Within the first hours of his detention, we were also informed of thousands of dollars in potential immigration-related fees and proceedings costs.

We are trying to raise $15,000 to help cover:

•⁠ ⁠Immigration attorney fees

•⁠ ⁠Motions and legal filings

•⁠ ⁠Detention and removal proceedings

•⁠ ⁠Court appearances and representation

•⁠ ⁠Immigration-related filing and case expenses

•⁠ ⁠Other necessary legal costs directly related to his case

About Luijo

Luijo has no criminal history. He is an incredibly hardworking, kind, patient, and supportive husband and friend.

He is the type of person who is always willing to help others. He is deeply loved by his family, friends, and community and has continuously supported those around him—including recently helping people affected by the devastating events in his homeland of Venezuela.

He is the sweetest and most caring man I have ever known. I am incredibly proud to call him my husband, and I will stand beside him throughout this entire process.

We Just Want the Opportunity to Fight His Case

We are committed to complying with all legal requirements, court dates, immigration proceedings, and procedures. This fundraiser is solely intended to help ensure that Luijo has qualified legal representation and the opportunity to properly present his case.

Being separated from my husband so suddenly has been emotionally, mentally, and financially devastating for us and our families.

I am doing everything within my power to fight for our family and give my husband the secure, stable, and safe future we have been building together. But right now, I cannot do it alone.

Our goal is $15,000, and every contribution—no matter how small—will go toward Luijo’s legal expenses.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing our story. Every share can help us reach someone who may be able to help.

And if you believe in the power of prayer, please keep Luijo and our family in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for reading our story, sharing it, praying for us, and supporting us in any way you can.

Help us fight for Luijo and bring him home. ❤️

— Valeria