This page is intended to raise funds for the legal fees and other related expenses for Omar Alvarez and his family.

Some time on the morning of Friday August 7, Omar was abducted by federal ICE agents on his way to work. And whether or not you know him, have eaten Omar’s food, have been served by him, or have had the privilege to interact with him while dining at Perla, you should be outraged by his imprisonment and disgusted with what is happening in this country.

Omar is the sous chef at Perla in Maplewood NJ. He is a friend and collaborator and has played a significant role in shaping Perla as it is today. Omar was the first employee of Perla’s nearly two years ago. In that time, he has distinguished himself, has shown himself to be nothing but a hardworking, dedicated, morally-just and gracious person in every aspect of his profession and personal life.

Omar is from Peru. He has been on his path to citizenship and has been following every lawful step in the process. As most of us are all very aware, that information does not matter much for people in his situation. Omar deserves proper legal representation. Most people facing the same dire circumstances do not have a network of support, do not know their rights, or never receive proper legal counsel. We feel honored and humbled to know Omar and are in a position of privilege to be able to lend assistance, guidance, resources and love, and know that this is the just and humane thing to be doing with that privilege.

Any amount will help and go towards providing for this man and his family. And while dollars are measurable, the act is moral and the gesture is immeasurable.