Some of you may already know this, but a little over a year ago I was poised to sell the business. Having been at it for 15 years — and coming on the heels of a 25-year-long community organizing career — I dreamed of outfitting a camper van and heading off into the wilderness. With the election of Trump, that all changed. Shortly after that fateful November night, the realization washed over me like a tidal wave: now is not the time to leave. It’s the time to stay and fight and to make the best use of the resources that exist within this business. I had a pretty good idea of what was to come, thanks to Project 2025. In order to achieve their vision of a white Christian fascist patriarchal nation, Trump’s team would have to disband our democratic institutions, attack vulnerable populations, shred the Constitution, and yes, employ violence. With every passing day, and with the intensifying assault on our values, I feel more strongly that I made the right choice. This business exists as a place of refuge, a provider of resources, a supporter of activism, and a venue for collecting and distributing community assistance. I am honored to work alongside you in the effort to hold the line on all that is decent.

• Phillis Engelbert, business owner

For more than a decade Buenos Vecinos has built community resiliency, uplifted Latinx leadership, and strengthened relationships across Washtenaw County. As a trusted grassroots connector, the team responds with a trauma-informed lens to support our Spanish-speaking neighbors facing their most urgent needs.

Since 2020, Buenos Vecinos has helped channel over $672,000 to over 500 Spanish-speaking families in Washtenaw County to help cover essentials like housing, utilities, food, and other basic needs.

Today, as immigrant and human rights face increasing threats locally and nationally, families are reaching out in greater numbers. The need is growing, and so is the responsibility to respond.

Help Buenos Vecinos reach its $150,000 Mutual Aid Fund fundraising goal for 2026 and continue supporting families on the growing waiting list for direct financial assistance. Every contribution goes straight to households, offering immediate relief and dignity during times of crisis.

Your support makes immediate, tangible impact. Thank you for standing with our neighbors!

WE ARE LAUNCHING A SALON* SERIES

“How We Imagine Doing Better in the Current Moment”
TUESDAY FEB. 10th • 6:30pm • Detroit Street Filling Station

In this kickoff to our DSFS Salon Series, we will host Paul Fleming, author of Imagine Doing Better, to discuss how we use imagination, reflection, and action to respond to the crises of this moment. Fleming, Associate Professor of Health Behavior and Health Equity at U-M, will share stories from his book and facilitate conversation among attendees around the theme of how we can collectively respond to the current moment and build a more sustainable and equitable community. 

*Salon: a space for community connection and discussion about important topics.

WE CONTINUE TO DONATE FOOD

FEB 5: QUEER OPEN MIC ••• Happy Hour Alex Wand & Michael Gould
FEB 12: DYKE NIGHT ••• Happy Hour Aspects of Love Cabaret
FEB 19: TRIVIA with Terry McClymonds ••• Happy Hour Elisabeth Pixley-Fink
FEB 26: QUEER OPEN MIC ••• Happy Hour Chris Halverson

… serves delicious vegan breakfast, lunch and baked goods Mon-Fri 8am to 2pm. It is located on the ground floor of Huron Towers Apts, 2200 Fuller Ct — just a five minute walk from U-M School of Music. Free parking!
Special order cakes & treats at thelunchroombakery@gmail.com
Make this location your North side oasis.