News - Спільнота об'єднується заради сім'ї, поки єдиний годувальник утримується Імміграційно-митною службою США (ICE)

In a heart-wrenching situation unraveling in Pico Rivera, community members have come together to support Erika Gallardo, a mother with cerebral palsy, and her two children after her husband and sole provider, Ademir Ramas, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. On the morning of January 10, Ademir Ramas left for his landscaping job as usual but did not return. Nearby surveillance footage revealed ICE agents detaining the 40-year-old, leaving his family in distress and uncertainty. Gallardo described her husband as her primary source of assistance, essential for her daily life due to her condition. "He would pretty much do everything," she shared, highlighting his role in managing errands and transport for her and their two young sons. The absence of Ramas has heavily burdened the family, emotionally and financially. "It's overwhelming," Gallardo admitted amidst the upheaval. Ramas' detention comes after he overstayed his work visa, despite having lived in the United States for 20 years and maintaining a clean legal record. Since being apprehended, he was transferred to the Adelanto ICE Processing Center. "He called me today and he’s not doing too good," Gallardo conveyed with concern for his well-being. The local community has responded compassionately, providing immediate assistance. Kelsey Cook, moved by the family's plight, launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover living expenses. "I just felt worried for her and wanted to help her to the best of my ability," Cook explained. As Gallardo navigates this challenging course, she is seeking legal representation in anticipation of Ramas' court date set for January 27. The family, especially Ramas' nine-year-old son, is struggling to comprehend the sudden absence of their father. "I don’t understand why they had to do this," he lamented, voicing the confusion and sadness that pervades their home. As support pours in, Gallardo reflects on the broader impact of immigration enforcement on families like hers, acknowledging the emotional toll it takes. "I just think about the families that are being affected," she articulates, fighting back emotions. "I just want him back," her son pleads simply yet powerfully. KTLA has requested comments from ICE and the Department of Homeland Security regarding Ramas' situation. As they await a response, the family remains hopeful for a resolution but prepared for a battle to reunite with their loved one and restore their life. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories intertwined with immigration policies, inciting both local action and broader discussions on procedural reform.