Finding Family Far From Home: Josserp and Santi’s Story

When brothers Josserp and Santi arrived in New York after years of displacement, they were carrying far more than what fit in a suitcase. They brought with them memories of their childhood in Venezuela – of family meals, camping trips in the mountains, and weekends by the sea. “What I miss most about my country is my family and its people,” Santi shares. “My whole life and childhood memories were there.” But after years of persecution under a 25-year dictatorship, the brothers were forced to flee for their safety, first to Colombia, and finally to the United States. “Colombia is a country I love with all my heart,” Santi says. “But it stopped being safe for us, too. The biggest challenge was, for the second time, having to leave my family, especially my daughter.”

Starting over in New York without knowing anyone was daunting – but it quickly became clear they wouldn’t be alone for long. “The welcome we received in New York was something we truly did not expect,” says Santi. “Hearts & Homes for Refugees has been everything to us, especially the group of volunteers who have become our American family.” HHR staff and volunteers were joined by volunteers from partner organization Rivertowns for Refugees, all of whom offered not just help, but true friendship. The support they received inspired the brothers to give their all to their resettlement.

Determined to build a stable life, both brothers have thrown themselves into work. Santi works nearly 70 hours a week at a nursing home and Josserp juggles two jobs, both at supermarkets. They share a small one-bedroom apartment and embrace a simple life with quiet gratitude.

For Santi and Josserp, hard work is a way to honor the people they love and the kindness they’ve received. “HHR is our safe place here,” Santi says. “More than a foundation, it’s a group of people with incredible humanity who have always been there for us.” Inspired by their journey and those who’ve walked beside them, the brothers hope to one day volunteer with HHR, becoming “a voice and representation of the Venezuelan and Colombian migrant communities in this country.” And above all, they just want a chance to build a better future – for themselves and their families.

Image: The brothers on the first day in their new home with HHR volunteers and partners from Rivertowns for Refugees. (ltr: Niall Cain, Anne Mahaney, Santi, Kerry Salvatierra, Josserp, Kerri Olson)