Fears of increased immigration enforcement have led many immigrant communities in Delaware to reconsider their daily routines, prompting local markets to turn to delivery services to support residents too scared to leave their homes.
Vanessa Padilla Camargo, owner of Carniceria Camargo in Newport, sat alone in her usually bustling butcher shop and restaurant during a recent lunch hour. Sales had dropped significantly, as many in the community are avoiding public spaces due to concerns over potential immigration raids. In response, Padilla Camargo, along with other local business owners, began offering delivery services, often free of charge, using their personal cars to ensure their customers have access to essentials without leaving their homes.
This shift in service reflects growing anxiety in Delaware’s immigrant communities, particularly after the first confirmed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in the state last week. While there have been no large-scale raids yet, the atmosphere of fear has only intensified following President Trump’s calls for mass deportations, which many immigrants fear could escalate.
Magdalena Garcia Sosa, owner of Lancaster Mini Market in Wilmington, also reported a 30-40% drop in sales due to the same fears. Her market has begun offering delivery services to help alleviate the stress, allowing customers to place orders with no delivery fee, provided they spend at least $20. Similarly, other immigrant-owned businesses in the area, like La Guadalupana Store and La Hispanita Do, have also started offering delivery services to help their communities feel more secure.
Delaware’s immigrant population, which totals about 98,000 people—roughly 10% of the state’s total population—has been further shaken by rumors and misinformation, especially circulating through social media and Spanish-language Facebook groups. These fears have led to more caution, with some business owners actively working to dispel false rumors, such as claims of ICE sightings near their stores.
In response, José Ortiz Flores, owner of El Nevado Mexican Grocery Store in Middletown, plans to launch a communication network for locals to stay informed and share accurate information about any ICE activity in the area.
The fear is palpable, but immigrant business owners continue to find ways to support their communities during this uncertain time.
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