
Urgent Support Needed: Our Move to College of the Holy Cross
Urgent Support Needed: Our move to College of the Holy Cross
Introduction:
Hello friends, family, and kind-hearted supporters. My name is Erica Alcaraz, and I’m reaching out to you with a humble and heartfelt plea for support during a life-changing chapter for my son, Joshua, and our family.
Why We’re Going:
Joshua has been granted a full scholarship to the College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts through the prestigious QuestBridge program—a nationally recognized program that connects high-achieving, low-income students with top colleges and universities. This tremendous honor fills my heart with pride and reflects not only his intelligence and dedication but also his determination to build a brighter future.
As his mother and his biggest supporter, I want to do everything I can to ensure he feels safe, confident, and cared for as he steps into this new world. He’s my only child and has never been away from home for more than a few days. He’s always found comfort in the familiar and strength in the people who love him. I want to be there to help him navigate this enormous transition—from getting his driver’s license and securing his health insurance to setting up his living space and finding his way around town.
Why This Matters:
More than the paperwork and logistics, I want to be there to soothe his homesickness and give him the steady support he’s always known. I also recognize that this is about more than him—it’s about me, too. From the first day of kindergarten when I was so anxious I could barely breathe, to graduation day when I lost my voice from cheering, my love and pride for him have only grown deeper.
Now, as he prepares to leave home and begin this journey, I need to be there to help him—and to learn how to let go just enough so he can thrive.
What We Need Help With:
We need to be in Massachusetts by July 25th, which is just seven weeks away. This extended stay comes with significant costs—flights, housing, transportation, meals, and the basic necessities of daily life. These expenses are simply more than I can manage on my own right now. I am in a position where I cannot make this transition possible without your help.
Why Your Support Matters:
Your donation isn’t just appreciated—it’s absolutely essential. It will directly allow me to be there for Joshua during this crucial first month, making sure he feels safe, supported, and ready to succeed. Every dollar you give will lift a burden that weighs heavily on me and make a real difference in our lives.
How You Can Help:
If you’re able to contribute, even a small amount, it would mean the world to us. If you’re not in a position to donate, simply sharing this campaign with others who might be able to help would be a tremendous act of kindness.
A Mother’s Gratitude:
Joshua is an incredible young man—kind, caring, and always ready to lend a hand to others. As he begins this new chapter, I want to give him the best start possible. But I can’t do it alone. I need your help.
Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for taking the time to read our story. Your kindness and generosity are not just helpful—they’re truly necessary for us to take this step.
With all my love and gratitude,
Erica
Organizer
Erica Alcaraz
Organizer
Long Beach, CA