I'm raising donations for my dear friend and coworker, Miss Maria, who is facing a significant financial burden as she works to secure permanent residency for her family in the U.S. Maria is a passionate advocate for early childhood education and has poured her heart into a groundbreaking project — “Addressing the Childcare Crisis with Innovative HR Strategies.” Her work sheds light on how staffing shortages in childcare deeply affect children’s development and the broader economy. Acceptance of this project qualifies them for the EB2 NIW visa.

Maria and her family made the courageous decision to leave their homeland in pursuit of education, safety and stability. With strong values and deep commitment, they’ve taken every proper step regarding visas. Maria is currently using her skills and degree to benefit the childcare industry, working alongside me in the preschool. She is the only one in her family permitted to work, while her husband lovingly supports her and cares for their home and daughter.

Beyond her professional contributions, Maria has generously volunteered her time in our local community and churches, always showing up with compassion and a willingness to serve others.

She is preparing to submit her research as part of a National Interest Waiver application, a critical step that would allow her family to remain in the U.S. and continue making a difference. However, the filing fees for this process have recently increased significantly—an unexpected and overwhelming challenge for her single-income household.

We’re asking for donations to help ease this burden and ensure her project moves forward. Any amount, no matter how small, will make a meaningful impact—not just for Maria and her family, but for the countless children and families her work supports.

Thank you for standing with us in support of a stronger, more equitable childcare system—and for uplifting someone who has given so much to our community.