When immigration enforcement impacts a family, the consequences don't stop with the person detained. A parent may suddenly be gone. A household may lose its primary source of income. Rent is still due, utility bills keep coming, and children still need food, stability, and reassurance that they are not alone.

Here in Evanston and Niles Township, our neighbors are living through these realities. Families are facing uncertainty, financial hardship, and the difficult task of keeping their lives together while navigating the effects of immigration enforcement.

That's where community comes in.

Sanctuary Evanston is a neighbor-led mutual-aid network bringing people together to support families directly impacted by ICE enforcement. We believe no family should have to face a crisis alone, and that looking out for one another is something we all have a role in.

Our goal is to raise $25,000 to help meet urgent needs, including:

Housing: Helping families keep up with rent and avoid housing instability.
Utilities: Helping cover essential bills and keep the lights and heat on.
Food and essentials: Making sure families have groceries and everyday necessities.
Legal support: Helping families access qualified immigration legal services.
Emergency assistance: Responding when an unexpected crisis puts a household at risk.

Every contribution helps turn solidarity into something tangible. Whether you give $5, $25, $100, or whatever you can afford, your support helps build a community where families know they have people standing beside them.

And giving isn't the only way to help. Sharing this campaign, volunteering your time, connecting us with resources, or encouraging someone else to contribute all strengthen the network.

This is what mutual aid looks like. It's neighbors sharing what they can, showing up when it matters, and recognizing that our community is stronger when no one is left behind.

We don't have to wait for someone else to take care of our neighbors. We can do that together.

Give what you can. Show up how you can.

We protect us.

Mutual Aid Evanston, IL

Behind every family is a community that can help.