Dear friends and family,

We are raising funds for Abuela, Carmen Cruz’s memorial plaque. After 20 years, she will finally have her wish fulfilled—to be laid to rest alongside her mother and siblings.

Abuela was always giving back to her community, bringing toys and school supplies to children in Puerto Rico every Christmas without fail. She did her very best, and she did an incredible job. As a single mother of six, she always put her children first and did everything she could for her family—her brother, her beautiful sisters, and her nieces and nephews.

A memory I have of her is whenever a downpour—un aguacero—would start in Puerto Rico, she would smile, laugh, and sing, “¡Que llueva! ¡Que llueva!” All while having a large pot of coffee going and cooking her delicious food—arroz con gandules, pasteles… and don’t even get me started on her pernil. She was known for her renowned cooking skills among friends and family, always the first to share a meal or offer a plate.

She also hosted the best Christmas parties and gatherings, setting all of us up in family “stations” to make pasteles together—memories that will stay with us forever.

Having a plaque made in her honor and laying her to rest means that generations of our family will be able to see her image and know what an incredible woman they come from.

Please consider donating if you’re able. Any amount, big or small, is truly appreciated. The last day to donate is Monday, April 6th.