Gallardo Cruz
Date Build: Saturday 31st September - Sunday 1st, October 2026
FAMILY INFORMATION
MOTHER: Yuliset
Age: 35 years old
Job: Sells tamales
Salary weekly: $82 US
FATHER: Jose
Age: 34 years old
Job: Factory worker
Salary weekly: $137 US
CHILDREN:
Scarlett - 6 years old
Dilan - 4 years old
Madisson - 1 years old
LETTER FROM THE FAMILY:
Dear Homes of Hope, I am José Ignacio, and I was born in the state of Guerrero, in a small town where violence and a lack of employment opportunities are very common. My parents separated when I was eight years old, and as the oldest of three children, I felt a responsibility from a very young age to help my family. I began working by selling candy at dances held in our town. After finishing secondary school, I went to work in the fields. At the age of 23, a relative helped me join the Mexican Army. However, over time I became disappointed with that chapter of my life, and a few years later I decided to leave the military. Later, we started a business with the intention of moving forward through our own efforts, but unfortunately, we began receiving threats. Because of this situation, we decided to leave Guerrero and move to Tijuana, where one of our relatives was already living. It was here that our youngest daughter was born and where we began a new chapter as a family. Wanting greater stability, we decided to purchase a piece of land through monthly payments because rental costs are extremely high. Although it has required a great deal of effort, having land of our own represents the possibility of building something permanent for our children. From an early age, I learned what it means to adapt to difficult circumstances and work hard to keep moving forward. After so many changes—from beginning to work as a child, to working in the fields and serving in the Army, and eventually leaving our hometown to protect our family—my greatest desire now is for my children to experience something different: to grow up in a place of their own that is safe and stable, without having to live with so much uncertainty about what tomorrow may bring. Thank you in advance for considering our story and for the opportunity you provide to families.