Ulrich Roland Kitsoukou and his wife Elodie came to Maine from Gabon, hoping to build a better life. They are here on visitor visas valid through 2028, and both have work permits—Roland works at Clynk in Biddeford, and Elodie is a seamstress at Pratt Abbot. Roland has also been a huge help to me personally, often assisting with reconstruction projects on my home.
On January 20, 2026, everything changed. Roland was driving home from work when he was stopped by ICE in South Portland. Despite having all his paperwork in his backpack right next to him, he was arrested on the spot. His car was left on the side of the road and later towed to an impoundment lot. Roland was transported first to Massachusetts, then to Rhode Island, where he is now incarcerated without any charges. His court date is set for February 9, 2026. Meanwhile, Elodie is left alone, afraid to even take the bus to work, and both are missing out on their much-needed income. The cost to retrieve their car and the sudden loss of income have made it impossible to keep up with basic living expenses, including rent, food, and utilities.
This couple has done everything right, but through no fault of their own, their American Dream has turned into a nightmare. Donated funds will help cover the basics—rent, food, electricity, and car insurance—while we work to secure legal help for Roland. I appreciate everyone who has read about Roland and Elodie's situation and reached out to ask me to set up this fundraiser. I have never done one of these before, but I have never seen a situation like this before. On behalf of this couple, I am grateful for any support you may want to provide!
On January 20, 2026, everything changed. Roland was driving home from work when he was stopped by ICE in South Portland. Despite having all his paperwork in his backpack right next to him, he was arrested on the spot. His car was left on the side of the road and later towed to an impoundment lot. Roland was transported first to Massachusetts, then to Rhode Island, where he is now incarcerated without any charges. His court date is set for February 9, 2026. Meanwhile, Elodie is left alone, afraid to even take the bus to work, and both are missing out on their much-needed income. The cost to retrieve their car and the sudden loss of income have made it impossible to keep up with basic living expenses, including rent, food, and utilities.
This couple has done everything right, but through no fault of their own, their American Dream has turned into a nightmare. Donated funds will help cover the basics—rent, food, electricity, and car insurance—while we work to secure legal help for Roland. I appreciate everyone who has read about Roland and Elodie's situation and reached out to ask me to set up this fundraiser. I have never done one of these before, but I have never seen a situation like this before. On behalf of this couple, I am grateful for any support you may want to provide!