Dear Community,

If you know Sandra Trigueros, you know two things: she makes incredible food, and she is one of the most kind-hearted and fiercely community-oriented people around. Sandra has spent years fighting tirelessly to defend the basic human rights of people in our community, taking an active and sustained role in statewide campaigns like Husky 4 Immigrants, so that all people in Connecticut can have access to healthcare regardless of their legal status. She has helped to construct several mutual aid collectives and grassroots networks in New Haven that are building the power of immigrants – with a focus on immigrant women – to protect themselves and one another in the midst of daily systemic violence; for example, this year she co-founded a Savings and Credit Cooperative to help immigrant women build financial resources collectively and autonomously.

Sandra has done all this while at the same time building her business, La Cocina de Sandra LLC. She started her business 4 years ago, selling traditional Guatemalan dishes from home. Over the years her business has expanded, as demand for her delicious food – including her iconic pupusas – has grown. Importantly, Sandra has brought her community-minded spirit into her journey as an entrepreneur; for example, on several occasions she has donated her time and product to raise money for others in need, and she has provided employment opportunities for women in her community.

Now we have a chance to support Sandra in taking the exciting next step of launching her own food truck. Amazingly,

However, the costs of purchasing, licensing, and repairing the truck are taking a huge financial toll. In New Haven, like in the rest of the country, immigrants are systematically denied access to financial resources, including bank loans or start-up funds for entrepreneurs. That’s why we are looking to raise 4,000 dollars to cover the costs of licensing, parking rental, repairs, and more.

Any amount you are able to contribute is welcome and so appreciated. Thank you so much for your consideration.