Carlos Cares was started by his family in 2020 to honor the memory of Carlos J. Perez-Albuerne. Carlos died at age 50, as a never smoker, 2 1/2 years after being diagnosed with lung cancer.

This year we ask for your support in raising money for the Immigration Client Filing Fees Fund at The Legal Aid Society of Rochester, NY. The Immigration Law Unit at The Legal Aid Society of Rochester assists immigrant community members in navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law through direct representation and relentless advocacy. They provide free legal representation to vulnerable noncitizens, including refugees, asylum seekers, survivors of domestic violence and other crimes, and undocumented or mixed-status families.

Obtaining lawful status in the U.S. carries a significant financial burden and the Immigration Client Filing Fees Fund provides direct assistance with filing and medical exam fees for those clients who cannot afford them.

We have set the goal of raising $25,000 as a way to honor Carlos' life. We aim to make this goal by February 28, 2026. We thank you for your consideration and for your donation. We are deeply grateful.

Read about why Carlos Cares chose The Legal Aid Society of Rochester as this year’s recipient, Carlos’ legal work, and how it ties in with our family’s refugee story.