My name is Netanya Sihombing and I am sharing our family’s story with a heavy heart. On December 2nd, our family’s world was turned upside down when our dad, Budi Sihombing, was unexpectedly detained by ICE and has been in the ICE detention center ever since. We had no time to prepare, and since that day we have been doing everything we can to fight his deportation and bring him home.

Our dad has lived in the U.S. for 33 years. He is a hardworking, God-fearing, family man who has always put his loved ones first. In all my dad’s years here, he has not done anything wrong. He has worked honestly, supported his family, and lived a quiet life grounded in faith.

Since his detainment, our family has struggled with financial insecurity, due to the loss of our father’s income. Much of our combined savings and the entirety of our joined income have already gone into legal fees, and living expenses. However, there are still many costs that will be coming our way to cover future legal actions as our father remains in ICE detention.

In the event that our legal recourse is unsuccessful, and our father is deported, he will need our full support in uprooting his life back home in Indonesia, with financial assistance in having shelter and basic needs to get back onto his feet.

This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional time for our family, especially during the holidays. We wish more than anything that he could be home with us as we aren’t able to celebrate without him by our side.

Any donation, no matter the amount, would mean so much to our family. If you are unable to donate, sharing my father’s story and keeping us in your prayers is still deeply appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, support, and compassion during this painful time.