My name is Zury and I’m raising money to support my family after my father, Antonio, was detained by ICE. On January 8, my father was detained outside of a Home Depot in Queens. I have always told my dad to stay away from Home Depot but, knowing him, he is the kind of person to always put us above his own wellbeing to provide us with the opportunity he did not have. He is now in a detention center in Louisiana, which is a plane ride from away and in this current situation it’s not possible to see him.

My father has no criminal record and no prior deportations--he has lived and worked in this country for almost 30 years. In addition to being a beloved member of our family and community, we also depend on him to pay our monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, food and so much more. His income is what makes it possible for me and my siblings to stay in school and keep a roof over our heads.

I am only 19, and my siblings are 17 and 13. My biggest priority is making sure my siblings can continue to focus on school during this incredibly difficult time. And without financial help, I will need to consider dropping out of school myself to make sure my family can survive and stay together. I know this is the last thing in the world my father would want, but just as he does, there are sacrifices that need to be made.

This fundraiser will help us cover legal fees as well as keep our family afloat as we work to fight his case in immigration court. Any donation, big or small, will make a meaningful difference in our family’s life. We are so grateful to our community for helping us out during this unimaginable time.