As many of you know, Josh has two children (officially adopted now!) who were brought here from Mexico by their mother (Josh’s ex-wife) as very young children, and are not documented. We’d love to help them get citizenship, since these awesome kids who are a huge part of our family are just the sorts of people we all want as citizens of the United States. Stellar kids. We love them.

I’ve recently taken over the process of figuring it all out and have done research (including meeting with an immigration attorney) into understanding the somewhat complex path to citizenship for kids who were brought here illegally. Basically, it takes both time and money, but CAN be done the right way. I’m committed to giving the time to make it happen (details to follow), but, unfortunately, lack the funds to close the deal.

All told, the process for both Michelle (17) and Illich (15) to become citizens of the United States, will take about $5,000. A good chunk of that is just for the paperwork required, and another chunk is to go through the process of returning to Mexico with them, waiting the mandatory amount of time necessary in order to then re-enter, legally, through the American Consulate. The location of the consulate is Juarez, Mexico. Not the most kid-friendly place on earth. The plan is to take them somewhere safer, nearby, and wait the 10 or so days necessary to then re-enter with the proper paperwork.

The money we raise from friends and family will only go to this process. I (Uncle Moe) will take the kids down to Mexico, sort through the paperwork process, keep them safe and sound for the requisite time period, then return them to Josh.

Unfortunately, we’re now in a bit of a time crunch with this process, since Michelle is already 17——when she turns 18, the process gets significantly more complex. We really need to get the ball rolling with paperwork as soon as possible.

Would you be willing to make a donation to this fund to help Michelle and Illich become legal citizens of the country they’ve grown up in? They’ll be able to get driver’s licenses, go to college, get jobs, and be real contributing members of society. Plus, they’ll finally feel safe and secure. You’ll be seriously altering the path of their lives.

Whatever you are able to contribute will be truly appreciated. We’ll keep you updated on the process along the way, and, if you’re really lucky, send you a postcard from Mexico when we’re about to cross back over to the US, newly minted citizens! Everyone gets to come to the celebration at my house after it’s all said and done!

Thanks for your consideration and taking the time to read all this! Please email or call me anytime if you have questions or ideas that might help.
If you’re not able to contribute, please know that we will not think less of you and understand completely.

Much love to you all—
Morgan
503-719-3963