Due to unforeseen circumstances, including a medical emergency and the loss of a job, Rony Peguero, a fellow Whitman alumni and also one of my closest friends, is facing imminent houselessness with his family. Because of this, he and his family have two weeks to gather $6,000 to pay the dues they owe in order to stay in their apartment in Harlem, New York.

As one of the sole providers for his family, Rony has always found a way to give, even from across the country. Rony’s strength, loyalty, and commitment to the people around him is a direct reflection not only of his upbringing but also of his character. As a first generation college student, to be juggling both his own goals and the goals of his family is one that many of us are privileged to not know the hardship of.

Rony’s family immigrated to Harlem, New York from San Francisco de Marcoís, Dominican Republic during 1997. Throughout their time in the United States, Rony and his family have faced immigration, the deportation of his father, countless medical emergencies as well as the difficulty that comes with settling in New York on an oftentimes single income. While his family is working hard to source money, there have been many setbacks due to the loss of a job and a medical emergency, which has left his mother, Ivelise, to raise his younger brother while also simultaneously providing for their household.

I consider Rony to be my family. Our friendship was an instantaneous one and he has been the backbone of my support system as well as his other loved ones. Rony offers a special kind of understanding that can only come from him. Our friendship is very important to me and I feel really lucky to have his consistent presence in my life. He is kind, hard-working, observant, funny and a huge fan of all things nerd. He is also kick-ass at trivia. Watching Rony tackle the obstacle that can be life, has deeply impacted the way I move through the world. And watching him grow as a person despite the immense amount of hardships he has faced, is nothing short of inspiring. Above all else, I want nothing but happiness for him and his family. No person deserves to face houselessness.

Any donations would be much appreciated to keep their family of four housed and safe. All funds will all be sent to the housing agency to pay any outstanding dues. Thank you for your time and energy! If you cannot donate, we would greatly appreciate a share. <3