Update May 2026: Hello everyone! It's been nearly a year since Hilary was initially detained in June 2025. We wanted to provide some life updates and share ways that individuals and community can support her recovery.

Since being released and winning her asylum case, Hilary was able to access housing assistance for asylees and started working again as a hair stylist and barber in a new salon.

The biggest hurdle that Hilary has had to navigate since being released is her leg surgery. Prior to being detained, Hilary did not require surgery, but after being released, she needed to have the metal rods and nails that were implanted in her leg removed for fear of tearing. Hilary was able to have her surgery this week, and they were able to remove the majority of the nails (8/12), and metal rods. Hilary is still on the road to recovery, the doctor has told her 6 months until she is able to fully be back on her leg, and any funds to support her inability to work at this time is greatly appreciated. Thank you all!

Background: On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Hilary Rivers competed at the 30th annual Miss and Mr Safe Latino pageant promoting health and wellness in LGBTQ+ Latinx community. Hilary was one of eight contestants and won second place for the title of Miss Safe Latino 2025. The next morning, on Thursday, June 26, 2025, Hilary attended her scheduled immigration appointment with her lawyer and was detained by ICE before being transferred to a detainment facility. Hilary was detained for almost 3 months in two different ICE facilities. Hilary was released on Saturday, September 20, 2025 after being granted asylum.

Why We're Raising Funds

Hilary suffered a variety of losses while in detention. Hilary suffered an injury, which went untreated and resulted in the worsening of an existing medical condition. Hilary now needs surgery to recover from the injury. Hilary's doctor has approximated a 6-month recovery time once the surgery is scheduled and completed.

During her time being detained, Hilary lost her apartment, employment, car, and the majority of her possessions. Additionally, Hilary is the primary provider for her family in Guatemala and was sending money weekly up until her detainment. During her time in detention, Hilary's mother suffered a stress-related medical emergency, which has resulted in additional debt.

Since being released, Hilary is working to reestablish her life and address her medical and mental health needs since her time in detention. Hilary has a long way to go and is asking for support in the following ways.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity in helping Hilary reestablish her life and move forward from this traumatic experience.

We've updated the new funding goal to include the updated needs for Hilary in these upcoming 6 months of recovery.

Cost to replace losses and support Hilary during a 6-month medical recovery include:

• Rent - $9,000 ($1,500 per month)

• Food - $3,600 ($600 per month)

• Phone service - $900 ($150/monthly)

• Debt accumulated while in detention - $1,810