Support a Family Separated by ICE!

"My name is Susan Lange. I am the coordinator for the visitation program for people in ICE detention at Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center in Elk Grove, CA. I met Maria, the wife of a man inside named Cristian, when we were both waiting in line to visit. She is deeply concerned about her husband and is struggling to keep her son and herself from being homeless. She is an inspiration to me with how she manages to keep her positive attitude and be a support for her husband and their 12-year-old son, Anthony. They are Sacramento residents.

In December 2017, without any warning, ICE picked up Cristian in front of the trailer where they were living. Cristian has been in ICE detention ever since.

Maria has a full-time job and has been able to keep the trailer where they live so far. However, it is difficult. Anthony’s school has helped with clothes and even new shoes, as Maria couldn’t afford shoes as Anthony’s feet grew. Anthony was even given the chance to talk about his family and what happened to his father at an assembly at his school, because he had a story to tell. He is a quiet person who loves his father and is very supportive of his father.

Cristian was recently transferred to West County Detention Center in Richmond, CA when the Sacramento County contract with ICE regarding the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center was not renewed. It is difficult for his wife and son to travel there to see him because their car is old and needs a new transmission. She is able to drive to work and back, but never leaves Sacramento because the car is not reliable and she doesn't feel safe. Thankfully, the community has been helping with rides to Richmond.

The family has managed to find Cristian an attorney, but the attorney is now charging another $1,000 to continue representing him. This family is humbly requesting assistance to help pay for the legal fees for Cristian’s immigration attorney, living costs, and hopefully an immigration bond (with a minimum of $1,500) that may materialize in the next month if the immigration judge grants Cristian a bond hearing – we will keep you updated!

Please help with any donation to help this family reunite!"

- Susan Lange, Amigos Fieles