I am fundraising on behalf of a man named Andre, a 27 year old man who is relentlessly optimistic, cheerful and grateful and came into my life in an amusing way during early s

Andrés, in an incredible journey several years ago, walked with 8 other members of his family (including 2 children) for nearly three months. Spanning 11 countries, from Colombia to Mexico, he arrived in Texas in early fall of 2023, ready to work, participate, and ensure he could take care of his 2 kids (boy and girl twins) back home. And he did exactly that.

(Approximate image of Andres' incredible journey)

He found work immediately. Sometimes up to three jobs. He sent money home consistently. He took English and civics classes. He believed in the promise of this country.

Through some community networking, he found a very well-paying gig, but after 3 weeks straight of back-breaking labor-intensive work for 10-12 hours per day, the man paid with a check that bounced. Andres tried to resolve it reasonably and patiently - openly trying to work with the man in what had to be a mistake, but after several ignored calls, Andres went back to the man's farm, just to be told that ICE had been called.

He escaped before they arrived, but ICE came to his home three times afterward. He can’t return. He can’t drive. He can’t work legally. And for someone whose sense of dignity is tied to providing for his kids, being forced into hiding has been devastating.

We’ve secured temporary housing and limited work opportunities, but the path forward is clear: stability, legal guidance, and time to get him into a safer, lawful position where he can work and live openly again.

This is an example of one of the impromptu tent cities that they would make while resting, and then bring when they crossed rivers and ponds together

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These are not abstract cases. This is a very hard working father who is deliriously happy to be in the US and simply trusts everything is going to work out fine.

Proceeds will go to:

If you’re able to give, thank you.

If you can share, that matters more than you know.