A journey to a brighter future
April 5, 2023
Blanca, a dedicated nursing student at Unitek College and a loving mother of a young child, shares her inspiring journey. Originally from Honduras, she sought opportunity in the United States, lamenting, “Back home, I didn’t have the option to study. I wanted to get ahead in life.”
Upon her arrival in Texas, Blanca reunited with her older brother. However, she soon faced a deportation order. In an effort to resolve her case, she moved to San Rafael and connected with Joana Castro Simonini, the managing attorney at Canal Alliance’s Immigration Legal Services department. At that time, Blanca was 17 years old and pregnant.
Blanca gratefully recalls, “Not only did Canal Alliance resolve my deportation case, but they also provided financial support and, more importantly, gave me hope. Because of Canal Alliance, I was able to go to school. It was a long process, but it was worth it. They helped me tremendously.”
Admitting her concerns, Blanca reflects, “I was worried. I thought, what if I don’t resolve my deportation case or obtain my residency? Thankfully, through Canal Alliance, I was able to make my dreams a reality. They supported me every step of the way.”
Following her high school graduation, Blanca enrolled in Contra Costa College to study as an Assistant Medical Nurse. Today, she proudly holds a work permit and has a pending residency application. She remarks, “Having a social security number opens up a lot of doors for you.”
As Blanca approaches the completion of her nursing degree, she looks back on her childhood dreams. “From a young age, we all had aspirations. Most kids want to be an astronaut or a fireman. I wanted to be a nurse. It was challenging because when I got pregnant, I wasn’t sure what the future held for me.”
However, she acknowledges the pivotal role of Canal Alliance in her life. “None of this would have been possible without Canal Alliance. The opportunities they create for people are unbelievable. Canal Alliance truly helps individuals fight for their dreams. I have a job I am proud of, and nothing brings me more joy than providing for my family.”
Presently, Blanca’s plans are straightforward. She aims to complete her nursing degree and ultimately pursue a career as a doctor.
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