Together for Efraín, with All Our Heart

Efraín Pérez left his native Guatemala in 1994, chasing the promise of a better life. For over 30 years, Los Angeles has been his home. He built a life rooted in hard work, community, and quiet devotion to his family.

In the early 2000s, he met his wife while they were both working at a local factory. Their friendship turned into love, and together they created a nurturing home filled with laughter, love, and fútbol. Their son, now a teenager and U.S. citizen, shares a special bond with Efraín—rooted in hours spent watching European soccer, debating rival teams in the Mexican league, and cheering for Manchester United.

Though born in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, Efraín’s rhythms have long aligned with the heartbeat of Los Angeles. He loves pozole, taquitos, and the comfort of everyday routines shared with loved ones. That comfort was shattered on June 19, 2025, when Efraín was detained by ICE outside a Home Depot in Glendale after finishing a job in Burbank. His car was left in the lot. A bystander’s video captured the moment—a man calmly complying, unaware that he would not be coming home.

After a brief hold in Los Angeles, Efraín was transferred to the Otay Mesa Detention Center in San Diego. His next hearing is scheduled for July 15 at Otay Mesa, though that could change at any time—detained individuals can be relocated without notice, at ICE’s discretion.

The situation has become even more difficult due to current policies that eliminated virtual hearings and now requires all immigration court appearances to be in person. This change not only creates logistical barriers for families, but it also makes it significantly more expensive to find and retain legal representation, especially due to the high volume and uncertainty of travel. Efraín urgently needs a lawyer, but securing one under these circumstances has been a major challenge.

We’re starting with a fundraising goal of $22,000 to cover immediate legal help and support for his family—but the true need will likely grow. Legal fees, travel, housing, and day-to-day expenses are quickly mounting as his loved ones fight to keep things afloat.

What’s clear is the human toll of his absence: a home upended, a child missing his father, and a family navigating with strength and heartbreak.

Your help is urgently needed.

This is more than an immigration case. It is a family in crisis.

A father taken. A community standing up to say: he does not face this alone.

Please share. Please donate. And please help bring Efraín home.