Hi, friends. Through BIJAN, The Boston Immigration Justice Accompaniment Network, I have been supporting a very kind, humble young man from Venezuela in navigating immigration court. Abel, 27, made the dangerous trip over here a few years ago because his family (wife and 2 young kids) could not afford food. A UN report in February 2024 cited nearly 82% of Venezuelans in poverty with 53% in extreme poverty in 2021.

Upon entry to the US, Abel registered his name with the US government. He has been working long hours as a carpenter, alongside many other immigrants, to send money for food home. Recently, he was called to immigration court and told he needs to find a way to go home in order to not be deported. If deported, it is unclear where he will wind up, as many deportees are being sent to prisons or countries that are not of origin.

The biggest challenge is that he is unable to get a Venezuelan passport since there is no Venezuelan embassy in the United States. Because of this, he needs to provide the judge with 2 purchased plane tickets (to Miami and then to Venezuela) and the purchased salvo conduct (assistance with the required document that provides safe passage back home). He also needs to spend one night in Miami at a hotel.

I am reaching out to friends through the GoFund Me to help cover a portion or all of the $1560.00 cost. I am not posting this on social media due to the sensitivity of this matter. If donating feels right for you, any amount, no matter how small, would be very helpful. I have been donating in similar, smaller ways thus far, but could use help with this one. If you know anyone that would be interested in helping out, please pass this along.

Thank you so very much! I I so appreciate you being someone that I would choose to reach out to, whether or not you are able to give.

Warmly,

Kathleen (Kathy) Young