Gonzales restaurant becomes donation hub amid fear from Louisiana immigration operations

GONZALES, La. (WAFB) – A once-busy Mexican restaurant in Gonzales now sits nearly empty, as its owner says fear surrounding recent immigration operations in Louisiana is keeping workers and customers away.

La Mexicana, which has served the community for almost 30 years, has seen a sharp decline in business. Owner Veronica Chaves said the restaurant currently has no employees and only a handful of customers.

“This is sad,” Chaves said.

She believes recent immigration enforcement efforts, including an operation known as Catahoula Crunch, have left many immigrant families afraid to leave their homes even for work or meals.

“I just can’t believe it,” Chaves said.

Out of that fear, a new community effort has emerged.

Local college professor Raynell Hernandez, along with several volunteers, has helped turn La Mexicana into a donation drop-off site for families in need. Community members can donate food, clothing, and other essentials, while families can arrange safe pickup locations without being asked questions about their immigration status.

“We’re not trying to hide anyone. We’re just trying to help in any way that we can,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez said she has received dozens of messages from people requesting basic necessities, including jackets, diapers, and baby formula. She said the effort is focused on helping as many families as possible, especially children.

“Children don’t understand immigration status. They just know they’re hungry,” Hernandez said.

Both Hernandez and Chaves said they hope tensions surrounding immigration enforcement will ease soon. Until then, they say the community’s support is critical.

“Our hearts pour out to them,” Chaves said.

You can send donations to La Mexicana at any time between 9:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. The restaurant is located at 648 Louisiana 30 W B in Gonzales.

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