Victor Monarque Memorial Fund

Just a few short months ago, we lost a beloved Echo Park Lake community member - Victor Monarque. Vic was a ray of sunshine with the most radiant smile, and he worked tirelessly daily to provide for his family. From the moment I met Vic back in 2020, it was clear that he was determined to obtain a permanent, safe and stable home for his partner Michelle, who was the love of his life, and their two young sons. In April 2022, Vic finally began to see his dream for their family come to fruition; after two years of navigating the homeless services system, the family was finally able to move into their own apartment.

On the day before their move-in, Vic texted me saying:

"I feel like I've waited my entire life to have a home as a kid and nobody could ever give me one as a child. Now I'm an adult and everyone keeps telling me that my hard work has gotten me to be where I am now. I'm about to sign a lease tomorrow at noon for the first time in my life. I still feel like I haven't done enough."

Vic was always humble and always extremely grateful for the support he received from the community.

On May 24, 2022 Vic was hit by a police car in his new neighborhood at approximately 12:40PM. He was rushed to the hospital and was in a coma for a week. On June 1, 2022 Vic succumbed to his injuries and passed away.

Vic is survived by his partner Michelle, and his two young sons (ages 6 and 10 months old). Michelle is an incredible and devoted mother who is now faced with the grief of losing the love of her life, and of raising their two young children alone. Vic was the breadwinner for their family, so Michelle is now faced with much uncertainty.

Our community is devastated with this senseless and tragic loss. Nothing can take the place of Vic, but I want to shower Michelle and her babies with love and support during this hard time. All donations will go directly to Michelle to help in covering the costs for Vic's funeral/memorial, as well as provide support for the family's basic needs (food, bills, diapers, gas, etc.) during this difficult time.

Please give what you feel you can. Thank you in advance for the love and support.