Welcome to
Match For Hope
Bringing Hope to Families Facing the UnthinkableOur StoryMatch for Hope was born from a place of deep personal experience and unwavering compassion. Our founder, Mayerlin Almonte, faced one of life’s most devastating challenges when her daughter, Zoe, was diagnosed with AML leukemia at just two years old. Their lives were turned upside down — countless sleepless nights in the hospital, endless medical procedures, and even relocating to another state — all in the desperate hope of saving Zoe’s life.
Lean More
Immigration
Assistance
Emotional and
Community
Support
Caregiver
Support
Our Mission
At Match for Hope, our mission is to stand beside pediatric patients diagnosed with critical or terminal illnesses — and the families who fight alongside them. We provide essential legal support to families in the United States and abroad who need to apply for humanitarian visas or other forms of immigration relief.
We also recognize the quiet strength of caregivers — the often-overlooked heroes of these journeys. Caring for a seriously ill child takes an immense emotional, physical, and financial toll. Through our care packages and emotional support, we aim to lighten that burden and remind caregivers that they are not alone.
What We Do
Immigrations AssistanceWe provide expert legal guidance and support for families needing humanitarian visas or other forms of immigration relief. Our goal is to ensure families can stay united and secure during the most challenging times of their lives.
SupportNo family should have to face this journey alone.
We foster a community where families can connect,
share their experiences, and draw strength from
one another.SupportNo family should have to face this journey alone.
We foster a community where families can connect,
share their experiences, and draw strength from
one another.
Caregiver support
We understand that caregivers are the backbone of a child’s healing journey. Our care packages are designed to provide comfort and remind caregivers that their sacrifices and strength are seen and valued.
Meet Our TeamWe are more than a team — we are a family united by the belief
that no family should have to face life’s hardest challenges alone.
Leadership
Mayerlin Almonte
Attorney Mayerlin Almonte, born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, has been practicing law since2007. She co-founded Immigration Counsels, LLC and has extensive experience in immigration law, representing clients across the United States and abroad in complex immigration cases. Mayerlin is a published writer in Latino Leaders Magazine and a co-author of the book “Saying ‘I DO’ to a Long-Lasting Business Partnership.” After being admitted to the New York State Bar, she dedicated her career solely to the field of Immigration and Naturalization Law. Mayerlin’s personal experiencewith her daughter’s illness drives her passion for helping other families navigate similar challenges.
Claudia Phaneuf
Attorney Claudia Phaneuf was born and raised in Lima, Peru. She co-founded Immigration Counsels, LLC and has been practicing law since 2005, focusing on complex immigration cases. Claudia is Board Certified by the Florida Bar as an expert in Immigration and Nationality Law — the highest level of recognition for competence and experience in this field. Claudia’s empathy and deep understanding of immigration law have helped countless families stay together during life’s most difficult moments.
Tameka Jordan
Tameka is a seasoned attorney with over 17 years of experience practicing law in both Jamaica and the U.S. She specializes in immigration law, where she fights for humanitarian relief, family reunification, and protection of vulnerable individuals. Tameka brings a results-driven approach to every case, with a strong background in civil litigation, family law, and public law. Outside of her legal work, Tameka loves art, traveling, and history — passions that give her a well-rounded perspective and deep sense of empathy for the families she serves.
Founding Members & Care Team Specialists
Our Care Team ensures that caregivers feel seen, valued, and supported. Each team member carefully curates care packages with the understanding that even the smallest gesture can bring comfort during difficult times
Zoe Lopez
Care Specialist
Zoe is passionate about history,
baking, and playing tennis. Her
strength and resilience are an
inspiration to every family
we support.
Mia Lopez
Care Specialist
Mia has a passion for dancing and
cherishes time with her friends
and family. She approaches each
care package with warmth and
thoughtfulness, creating a sense
of comfort for caregivers.
Alexander Hronsky
Alex is passionate about speech and debate and loves playing chess. His attention to detail ensures that every care package reflects the unique needs and personalities of the caregivers.
Covin Gilot
Covin has a love for math and science and enjoys football. He focuses on creating care packages that bring both practical comfort and emotional
reassurance.
Chase Gilot
Chase shares Covin’s love for math and science and enjoys baseball.
He carefully selects items that will offer caregivers comfort and strength during challenging times.
Makenzy Ayanna Jordan
Makenzy loves science and plays the French horn. Her creativity and attention to detail bring a personal touch to every care package, ensuring caregivers feel truly supported.
Robert Phaneuf
Director of stress relief, he enjoys sharing love and relieving all the staff from any sort of stress.
Get Involved
You can help us bring hope to
families in need. Your support
makes a meaningful difference.
DonateYour contribution helps us provide legal services and care packages to families in crisis.
Volunteer Join our team and make
a direct impact on families
facing unimaginable
challenges.
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Follow us on social
media and share our
mission with your
community.
Contact Us