Support Edgar Florentino's Fight to Stay in Chicago

Dear friends and community, 

I hope this message finds you all well as as we welcome the new season.

My name is Edgar Florentino and I grew up in Chicago’s South Side neighborhood of Back of The Yards.

Many of you know me as a community gardener,dedicated to beautifying and uplifting the very streets I once struggled on. 

Like many young people in our neighborhood,I faced challenges and witnessed daily trauma that led me down the wrong path. But at age 21, made a choice to turn my life around,and by 29, found my true calling-community gardening and engagement. What started as a simple love for flowers has become my mission: transforming neglected spaces into places of beauty,pride and connection. 

Beyond my work in the community,my family is my heart-my mother,my two younger sisters and our two fluffy white poodles. Since the passing of my father,I have taken the role of provider and protector. Now I am facing a difficult immigration process and urgently need a lawyer to represent me. Unfortunately I cannot afford legal representation on my own, and the thought of being separated from my family and my community is devastating. 

I’m humbly asking for your support. Any donation no matter the size will help me secure a lawyer who can fight for my chance to stay in Chicago- my home ,my purpose, my everything. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and support. 

With gratitude,

Edgar Florentino 

Community Gardener | Back of The Yards, Chicago