Two weeks ago, my life was seriously disrupted.

I had traveled from Montréal to New Hampshire for a job interview. When I attempted to return home to Canada, I was stopped at the border and denied entry.

Border agents told me that visitor visa rules had changed. They searched my phone, went through my Instagram, and saw posts about Le Cookbook Club, a community gathering series I started where people cook meals together and build connection through food.

They accused me of running a business in Canada.

I explained again and again that I was not working there. I showed them my book contract, my savings, my lease, my entire life in Montréal. None of it mattered.

They turned me away.

In a matter of hours, I lost access to my home, my belongings, and my community.

Worst of all, my dog was still inside my Montréal apartment.

I drove to a friend’s house in Vermont in complete shock.

An immigration lawyer advised me to try again at a different border crossing with additional documentation, tax returns, proof of funds, mail, everything. I gathered everything they suggested and returned to the border hoping for a different outcome.

Instead, they flagged my file and denied me entry a second time.

At that point it became clear: I could not return to Canada.

My dog, my apartment, and everything I owned were still there.

In an incredible act of love and solidarity, friends drove to Montréal, picked up my dog, and brought her safely to me in Vermont. This week, other friends are packing up my beautiful Montréal apartment so that I can move my life forward.

This sudden immigration crisis has forced an unexpected and expensive relocation.

I am now rebuilding my life and relocating to New York City, where I plan to continue my work as a theatre artist, storyteller, and community organizer.

This moment has been devastating, but it is also pushing me toward the next chapter of my life, toward the stages and creative communities where I’ve always dreamed of building my work.

I’m asking for help covering the immediate costs of this emergency move:

Moving & Transition Costs

Packing apartment in Montréal – $600

Loading truck in Montréal – $500

U-Haul truck rental – $1,000

New York City relocation

Move-in costs, first rent, utilities setup, supplies, internet – $10,000

Total goal: $12,100

If you know me, you know that my life’s work has always been about building community and telling stories that bring people together.

Right now, I’m leaning on that same community.

Your support will help me stabilize after this unexpected immigration crisis and make the transition to New York so I can continue creating, producing, and sharing stories that matter.

Any contribution, large or small, makes a difference.

And if you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign helps more than you know.

With gratitude and love,

Jarvis