The purpose of this fundraiser is to help a dear friend and community member Rene and his wife Arely. Rene has just been detained by ICE and is currently being held in a detention center. He was right at the end of the process of getting his green card.

Our families have spent a great deal of time together. I met Arely and their children first, and I could see immediately how much the children adore their dad. When I met Rene, it was heartwarming to see how much he loves them as well. Despite working about 72 hours a week as the sole provider for his family, Rene is so present, caring, and genuinely happy to be with his family, especially their new two month old baby girl. As I’ve gotten to know Rene as a friend, it is clear that he is an extremely hardworking, kind, and helpful person.

This has been an absolutely devastating blow for Arely and the children. Not only has this family lost their sole source of income for their living expenses, they now face thousands of dollars in legal costs in hopes of bringing Rene home and reuniting him with his family.

Simply bringing Rene home will cost upwards of $10,000, which doesn’t include the legal costs of then fighting in court to be able to stay here with his family. Additionally, Arely and the children will need money for food and other basic living expenses.

Please, let’s come together and help this amazing family during their time of need. Any assistance would truly mean the world to them, as they have no support in the area. Thank you very much!