In the face of increased ICE activity and the fear it has generated across our communities, Penny Lane Centers is standing firm in its values—compassion, justice, and unwavering support for the people we serve.
Our CEO, Wendy Carpenter, recently shared a heartfelt message with staff, not only acknowledging the pain felt by our Latinx community but also reaffirming that Penny Lane has never and will never stand idly by in times of injustice. We act.
“Our Latin community is suffering, and like many of you, my heart is breaking. The fear is real. For some, it is life changing. For others, it may bring back old wounds or stir new ones... Penny Lane is not remaining silent. We are not remaining idle. We are an agency of action.” – Wendy Carpenter, CEO
That action has taken many forms over the past weeks—from advocacy and education to donation drives and resource coordination. We have continued to distribute Know Your Rights "Red Cards" at every front desk, trained our staff on how to handle ICE visits, and ensured immigration attorneys are available for support. Our social media has amplified resources, and leaders across programs have created space for staff and clients to voice fears, ask questions, and receive support.
And this movement of care has not stopped there.
Across all Penny Lane sites, staff have stepped up in extraordinary ways. Judy Grant has been tirelessly connecting with facility staff, answering questions, and providing critical resources. In Pasadena, we uplift the work of Congresswoman Judy Chu, who continues to speak out in defense of Asian American and immigrant families, particularly as fears ripple through communities still healing from past anti-Asian hate and ongoing immigration-related trauma.
At our Commerce site, the response has been nothing short of remarkable. Led by Daniel Bustamante and Lilie Amezquita, the team launched a robust donation and care campaign:
“In the midst of fear and uncertainty, your small acts of kindness have brought light and hope. It’s these simple gestures that remind us of our shared humanity and the power we hold when we come together with open hearts.” – Daniel Bustamante
From the HOMES team to our TAY program, from clinicians to front desk staff, everyone played a role. Special appreciation goes to Cristina Juarez (ECM), Marisela Doval (Commerce Clinic), Yesenia Ruiz (Office Manager), and front desk team members Mariana Nieto and Adriana Ruiz. Their compassion and swift action ensured our families felt seen, safe, and supported.
We also acknowledge the unwavering efforts of Ricardo Sigala, Alana McKinney, Annie Lozano-Gonzalez, Dilia Martinez, and so many more who have made themselves available across departments—ready to answer, to lead, and to simply ask: “How can I help?”
This is not a one-time effort. Our communities need long-term support, understanding, and advocacy. If you haven’t yet, consider donating your bucket list points to provide a gift card to a family in need. No act is too small. We also encourage everyone to continue using your voice, staying informed, and checking in on one another.
And most importantly, remember who we are:
To our Latinx, Asian, and all immigrant community members: you are not alone. Penny Lane sees you, stands with you, and continues to fight for your safety, your rights, and your dignity—yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Check out some more photos below!
“Borders may divide land, but they should never divide humanity. Every family deserves safety, dignity, and the chance to heal.”
Every day at Penny Lane is an opportunity to help our young people and their families rewrite their stories. This past month has reminded us just how critical our role is not just in supporting our clients individually, but in standing with our communities during uncertain and challenging times. Recently, many of the families we serve have been living in fear due to the increase in immigration enforcement happening throughout Los Angeles. These events have caused deep anxiety, disruption, and a renewed sense of vulnerability, especially among families who were already facing economic and social instability.
In response, our staff here at Commerce has come together in powerful ways. We’ve held open discussions at our location about how best to support these families. These conversations have led to actionable ideas and heartfelt efforts. Staff members have personally donated perishable food items and distributed gift cards to families in need. These small yet impactful acts of solidarity reflect our commitment to being more than service providers, we are part of the community, and we rise with it.
The resilience of our youth and families continues to inspire us. Despite uncertainty, we see strength. Despite fear, we see perseverance. And it motivates us to continue showing up with compassion, creativity, and courage.
In the broader context of Los Angeles County, where foster youth already face immense barriers such as housing insecurity, systemic inequality, and emotional trauma, these added stressors only deepen the need for holistic, culturally responsive support.
As we move forward, we remain committed to advocacy, healing, and collective care. We invite others to join us whether through volunteering, donating, or simply taking the time to understand the challenges our youth and families face. Together, we can build a community where every young person has the chance not just to survive, but to thrive
