Dear Community,

I am seeking to raise funds for dear friends of mine, people that I consider family, who like so many others across the country in recent months, have been impacted by the mass deportation effort being carried out by our federal government. This story isn’t about politics or opinions; it’s about a family who has loved, lived, and built their lives here for over 35 years… suddenly being torn away from everything they know.

For more than three decades, this family has been woven into the fabric of our community, the SYV community. They raised their children here, worked here, attended church here, supported their neighbors, and showed up for every birthday, school event, and family milestone. They are a mother and grandmother, a father and grandfather, a sister, a friend, and the kind of people whose presence quietly strengthens a community.

Earlier this week, while arriving at the courthouse for their scheduled immigration hearing, a hearing they complied with in full, their world shattered. Instead of having their case heard, they were detained at the courthouse by ICE, separated from their loved ones with no warning, and transported across the border. They were left in Tijuana with no resources, no direction, and no understanding of what comes next.

This family is not a threat. They are not criminals. They are people who have spent decades contributing to the only home they’ve known. Their children and grandchildren are here. Their entire lives are here. And now they find themselves in a place they have not lived in for decades, unsure of where they will sleep or when or if they will be able to see their family again.

Regardless of political belief, no human being deserves this. No family should be torn apart, especially during the holidays, while doing exactly what they were told to do and by following the legal process in good faith.

We are raising funds to help them with urgent needs during this crisis, including:

• Safe and stable housing

• Food and essential supplies

• Transportation

• Legal support

• Emergency costs as they navigate their next steps

Our community has the power to bring them safety, stability, and hope in a moment when everything feels uncertain.

If you can donate, please do. If you can share this, please do. If you wish to know more details surrounding this situation or the individuals involved, please reach out to me directly.

Your support is more than financial; it is a reminder that compassion still exists, and that even in the darkest moments, a community can stand together for a family in need.

Thank you for opening your heart.