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I never imagined I’d have to ask for help like this, but today I’m reaching out—not just for myself, but for the hundreds of people who depend on the work I do every day.
My name is Crystal Sanchez. I serve as president of the Sacramento Homeless Union, Western Regional Director of the National Union of the Homeless, and a full-time advocate and organizer for unhoused communities primarily here in Sacramento. I’m also a mom of four, including one child living in Fresno, whom I commute to see regularly. By day, I work at a Sacramento law office; by night, I support survivors in a domestic violence and trafficking safe house. Every dollar I earn goes straight to keeping a roof over our heads and covering life’s essentials.
My work never stops. I bring thousands of pounds of survival gear to encampments. I guide people through complex systems to secure shelter, housing, healthcare, and benefits. I walk side-by-side with community members—doing intakes, case management, and problem-solving every barrier in their path. I fight hunger, challenge unjust laws, distribute vital donations, and educate the public—all without pay. This is not just work to me; it’s a calling rooted in deep moral responsibility.
On November 11th, 2025, our 25-year-old van—a tireless workhorse and beacon of hope on wheels—was totaled in a crash. My fiancé Jay and I sustained serious injuries, including dislocated ribs, slipped discs, and both external and internal injuries, and were left stranded. That van carried water, blankets, and supplies for thousands—it was more than just a vehicle, it was the backbone of my mission. Losing it is devastating.
We had recently invested $2,500 in repairs, but insurance will only cover $4,000 for the van as it is totaled. On top of that, my injuries have forced me to take weeks off work, costing me critical income—approximately $1,700 a week before taxes. Bills are coming, the van is gone, and these setbacks hit us hard.
I do have an attorney working on the case, but these things take time and won’t cover this immediate gap. The van wasn’t worth much to insurance because of its age, but to me, it was priceless—a lifeline that kept me connected and carrying vital supplies every day.
I’m asking for help to raise $8,000 to $10,000 to cover the gap between insurance and the cost of a reliable replacement vehicle, plus to offset lost wages and bills. This isn’t just about a van—it’s about keeping open the lifeline of support, advocacy, and hope for the hundreds of people counting on me.
If you know me, you know the work I do demands everything every day. If you don’t, know this: behind every blanket handed out, every shelter secured, and every fight for justice won, there are real people facing real struggles. I invite you to join me—not only by contributing, but by sharing my story and standing with us in this movement for lasting change.
If you want to learn more about the work I've done and the impact we’re making, just Google my name alongside “Sacramento Homeless” and you’ll find plenty of media coverage sharing our story and fight.
You can learn more about our work and stay connected by following us on social media:
If you want to reach out directly, please email us at: [email redacted]
Thank you again for your support—you’re helping keep this vital work alive.