SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Three sisters currently living in tents at Cesar Chavez Park experienced a special moment Monday as they spent their first day at Perkins Elementary School.
“It broke my heart to see the three little girls and their mother. They didn’t know where to go,” said Hala Totah, a Santee resident who was moved by their story.
After seeing ABC 10News anchor Aaron Dickens’ stories about Carmen Paniagua and her three daughters, she contacted Dickens through social media and offered her support.
“My parents came from Jerusalem, from the Middle East. They had nothing,” Totah said.
This inspired her to buy backpacks and school supplies for Carmen’s three little girls.
“I told my husband I have to get them backpacks when they go to school. I don’t know if they have what it takes. Thanks to you, we managed it,” Totah said.
“I am grateful for everything you have done for us and for standing by our side,” said Raquel, Carmen’s eldest daughter. She said life in a tent is hard.
“It’s hard because people who walk by look at us with disgust,” Raquel said.
However, living in a tent was a big challenge for Raquel and her family.
However, Raquel said her family cannot return to Nicaragua. Her mother, Carmen, fled the country after being sexually abused by a government employee.
But now, in a new chapter of her life, ABC 10News asked Raquel what her dreams are.
“I want to help other people who need help,” said Raquel.
