We are writing on behalf of our dear friend, Juan Martinez, and his family during one of the most frightening and heartbreaking moments of their lives.

On the morning of December 3, 2025, Juan was on his way to work in Charleston, West Virginia when he was pulled over for tinted windows. What should have been a routine stop quickly turned into a nightmare: Juan was taken into ICE custody and later transferred to a detention center in Port Isabel, Texas.

Before this, Juan and his family lived a quiet, hardworking life in their small community. Juan spent weekends playing soccer, regularly helped his elderly neighbor with household chores, and—most importantly—was a devoted husband and father. In an instant, a loving parent, caring neighbor, and sole provider was taken from his home. He left behind his wife and their two children: a 10-year-old and a 2-month-old baby.

Since Juan’s detention, his wife has been doing everything in her power to bring him home. $3,000 to an immigration lawyer who took advantage of her vulnerability, took her money, and provided no legal assistance or progress on Juan’s case. At this time, Juan remains detained with limited access to food and no clear information about when—or if—he will have a hearing.

Meanwhile, his wife is left alone to care for their children. Because she is caring for a newborn, she is unable to work, and the family has suddenly lost all household income. Bills continue to come due, rent must be paid, and groceries are a daily concern—all while they wait in painful uncertainty for news about Juan.

This fundraiser exists to help Juan’s family survive this crisis. Any contribution—no matter the amount—makes a real and meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser to help spread the word. Your compassion, generosity, and solidarity mean more to this family than words can express.