There is nothing I believe in more deeply than the power of community, mutual aid, and showing up for one another in times of need. Today, I’m asking for us to come together to support a beloved family in our community- Maria and her father, Mr. Reynoso, who recently experienced a devastating event and subsequent loss.

Three weeks ago, while on a long-awaited journey to Mexico, their truck caught fire on the Altamont Pass. In a matter of moments, the fire engulfed the vehicle, destroying everything inside. Thankfully, Maria and her dad made it out safely, but the truck and all of his belongings were lost.

This wasn’t just any trip. Maria was accompanying her father to his hometown in Mexico, where he was planning to begin his well-earned retirement, a lifelong dream finally within reach. Every item in that truck was packed with care: clothing, cash, essentials, sentimental items, and tools to start a new chapter of peace and rest after years of hard work and sacrifice.

For those of us who are children of immigrants, or who have watched our parents work tirelessly—often invisibly—to build a better life for their families, this story hits home. We know the depth of that dream. And we know how heartbreaking it is to watch it slip away in an instant.

But here’s where we come in.

I’m organizing because I believe we can turn this tragedy into an outpouring of love. With your help, we can rebuild some of what was lost. We can remind the Reynoso family that they are not alone, that the dream is still alive, and that community shows up when it matters most.

Please consider giving what you can. Every donation, every share, every kind word makes a difference. Let’s rally around the Reynoso family with the warmth of community and help them begin again with hope, dignity, and the support they deserve.

This is mutual aid. This is community. Let’s show up.

Con mucho mucho amor,

Mel