My name is Nick. I’m 19 years old, and I want to share my story, not for sympathy, but to
show the strength that can come from pain, and the power of the right support when someone is at their lowest.
A few months ago, my life changed forever. My mother was arrested by ICE and deported. She was my protector, my guide, and suddenly, she was gone. I was left alone to care for my three younger siblings, ages eleven, six and three. We are all U.S. citizens. I was scared, overwhelmed and unsure of what would happen to us.
During that time, I stayed with a relative, hoping to find some stability. But instead, I faced something no one should ever have to endure. I was brutally attacked by someone in the household. I was broken — not just by what happened, but by the helplessness of knowing my mom was locked in a cell, and unable to defend me.
I lost my job. I lost my home. I lost my sense of safety. But I didn’t lose hope.
Identity stepped in when I had nowhere else to turn. They helped me find a home, food and a way to start over. They’re helping me find a job and begin to rebuild my life. Thanks to them and their network of partner organizations, I’m in a place where I can breathe, feel safe and believe in the future again.
