I was asked to go on an unpaid leave today because my work permit has expired. As of now, I am at risk of losing not only my job but my internship and my school funding.

I spoke with my attorney and he said that it has taken longer than it has ever taken for DACA renewals. It is now taking about 6 months at most. Unfortunately I don’t qualify for unemployment as an undocumented person. It is an incredible stressful position to be in.

For the past 4 years I’ve worked with the houseless and vulnerable populations, I have worked very hard helping individuals find stability and have have helped many houseless people obtain stable housing. Given the nature of my job I thought my employers would be understanding, knowing that this job is my only source of income and that this decision would put me in an uncertain and vulnerable situation. but instead I was met with apathy. The decision to let me go today felt abrupt and impersonal. They asked me to leave work effective today, they shamed me and made it seem like it was my fault. There were no further explanations just a very short and cold HR recital that I am not allowed to work without documents.

My goal is to raise $6,000 to cover basic needs like rent, bills, food, and pet care.

If you’re able to contribute or share, it would mean a lot to me during this time. Thank you for reading and for any support you can offer.