Hi, my name is Jenny Machuca. I’m usually the one helping others bringing food, hygiene supplies, transportation, and support to families who are struggling. I’ve seen how powerful community can be, and I’ve always believed that if I could help, I should.

Today, I’m asking for help for my own family, and this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.

My dad has been through multiple surgeries and ongoing health issues that have taken away his ability to work. He is currently on dialysis and continues to relapse frequently, making every day uncertain and challenging. The responsibility of keeping her family afloat has fallen entirely on my stepmom. She is the head of our household, the only provider, and the strongest woman I know. She has sacrificed everything for my dad and my siblings, without complaint.

Now, fear has taken over our lives.

Because of how unstable and scary everything has become, She has completely stopped working because ICE has been coming to their home, knocking on doors, and driving around the neighborhood, which has made it too unsafe for her to continue to work.

Not because she doesn’t want to but because she is terrified that if something happens to her, my dad and my siblings would be left with nothing. She has called me crying, breaking down, saying she doesn’t know what will happen to them, how they will survive, or how much longer she can hold everything together.

I’ve done everything I possibly can to help. I’ve stretched myself thin. But I can’t carry this alone anymore. Bills don’t stop. Rent doesn’t stop. Utilities don’t stop. They just keep piling up, and my family is drowning.

I never imagined I’d be in this position asking for help instead of giving it but right now, my family needs it.

If you are able to donate, even a small amount, it would go directly toward covering essential bills and helping my dad and siblings stay safe and housed during this incredibly fragile time. If you can’t donate, sharing this means just as much.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading, for caring, and for reminding us that we are not alone.