Support Debbie and Michael's Journey to Stability

Help Debbie & Michael Find Security

The Heart of Bushwick Needs Our Support

Full story initially reported here on bushwickdaily.com.

Behind the counter of Sent shipping center in Bushwick stands Debbie Perez, a woman whose warmth and dedication have made her more than just an employee, she's become the heart of the neighborhood. For years, Debbie has been the friendly face greeting customers by name, remembering their addresses, asking about their families, and solving shipping problems with expertise and care that's nearly impossible to find elsewhere.

But while Debbie has been taking care of her community, she's been facing a crisis of her own. After being evicted from their Williamsburg apartment when their landlord reclaimed the space, Debbie and her son Michael found themselves with nowhere to go. Rather than missing work or abandoning the customers who depend on her during a busy holiday period, Debbie made an extraordinary choice: she and Michael have been sleeping at the shipping center itself.

Each night after closing, they unfold a cot and a mattress on the concrete floor among shipping boxes and packaging materials. The space where customers line up during the day becomes their bedroom at night. Every morning, they pack away their makeshift home before customers arrive, with Debbie greeting the first person through the door with the same genuine smile she's known for, never letting on about the struggles she's facing.

"I've actually been sleeping and living here," Debbie explained, pointing to the customer waiting area. "You're standing in the middle of my bedroom at nighttime."

Despite working over 50 hours weekly and managing operations single-handedly most days, Debbie's modest salary hasn't been enough to secure new housing amidst Brooklyn's soaring rents. While Debbie has recently secured temporary housing with her oldest son in Yonkers to help care for his newborn twins, this solution means leaving behind the Brooklyn community she's served for years, the neighborhood where she grew up playing in opened fire hydrants and sneaking nighttime swims at McCarren pool.

For those who know Debbie, her impact can't be overstated. With hundreds of five-star reviews mentioning her by name, customers consistently describe her as "a TREASURE to Brooklyn" and the reason they choose Sent over other shipping options. Small business owners especially rely on her expertise and personal touch—one online vintage store owner noted that "D is the lady of the neighborhood... she has a positive solution to all problems shipping and in my personal life."

This fundraiser aims to help Debbie and Michael secure stable, affordable housing back in the Brooklyn community where they belong. While Debbie has never been one to ask for help—continuing to serve others even while living on a shipping center floor—we as a community have the opportunity to support someone who has supported so many of us through everyday interactions that make neighborhood life meaningful.

Any contribution will help provide:

- Grocery Money

- Moving expenses

- Essential furniture and household items

- A financial cushion during the transition

Debbie's final day at Sent will be May 2nd, giving us limited time to help her find a path back to Brooklyn. Let's come together to ensure that the person who has been there for so many of us doesn't have to leave the community she calls home.

Whether you've been personally greeted by Debbie's smile or just value the people who make our neighborhoods feel like home, your support can make a difference for someone who truly embodies the spirit of community service and care.

A community farewell gathering for Debbie will be held on April 26th at 3pm at Crossroads Cafe for those who wish to express their appreciation in person.