Marleny and Aaron came to the United States as teenagers, each carrying hope and hardship. Marleny arrived from Honduras at age 13 to reunite with family in California, leaving behind her mother and sisters. Aaron came from Mexico at 14 after years of instability, at one point living alone and struggling to meet basic needs.
They eventually met at John O’Connell High School in San Francisco, where Marleny’s strong academic skills and determination complemented Aaron’s resilience. They graduated in 2009 and married a year later, beginning their life together in California. Like many immigrant families, their path to stability was uncertain. Although both were approved for DACA, they wanted something more permanent with a future they could count on but didn’t know where to begin.
With our guidance, Marleny and Aaron began the complex process of applying for U Visas as a step toward lawful permanent residency. CCEB stepped in at every stage providing expert legal support, tracking deadlines, assisting with documentation, and offering consistent encouragement during a long and uncertain wait. Both Marleny and Aaron were able to secure work permits while their applications were pending, allowing them to continue supporting themselves and contributing to their community.
In July 2026, their applications were approved. Today, Marleny and Aaron are building a stable, secure future one that once felt out of reach. Their story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassionate, expert support meets determination.
Your support makes stories like theirs possible. By investing in Catholic Charities East Bay, you help individuals and families move from uncertainty to stability, and from fear to belonging.