My name is Francisco, and I never imagined I would find myself in this situation. On Saturday morning, my girlfriend called to tell me that DHS was conducting a raid near Glam Donuts. I rushed to the scene, hoping to help an immigrant who was being detained. In the chaos that followed, I witnessed the tragic shooting and death of Alex Pretti. Immediately after, ICE agents detained me and took me to the Whipple building, where I was held for 12 hours without food, water, or access to legal counsel. While I was there, I heard and saw the abuse of deportees, which has left me deeply shaken and traumatized.

Now, I am under witness protection, trying to care for my son and keep our lives together. My phone was destroyed by ICE and DHS, and I am struggling to pay rent, bills, and provide for my family. We have no outside help, and every day feels like a fight to stay afloat. Your support will help us cover basic needs, replace what was lost, and give my son a sense of stability during this uncertain time.

If there is any money left over after our immediate needs are met, I am committed to using it to help immigrants get the legal assistance they desperately need. I also want to set aside something for my son's future college career, if he chooses that path. Thank you for reading our story and for standing with us when we have nowhere else to turn. Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can say.