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As told by his daughters friend, Merry Eisenstadt
Early Life
Francisco Mendez was born in Mexico City with his parents, older sister, and brother. His parents sold street food, which he spent much of his time helping with as a kid. Growing up, it was clear to him that his family was struggling financially.
Eight year old Francisco at his First Communion
"I could not bare to see my father and my mother. They could not afford to feed me anymore, so we had to leave."
In Mexico, it was nearly impossible for his family to move up the socioeconomic ladder. There was a lack of safety and, throughout his childhood, Francisco was struggling to receive a fulfilling education. Additionally, Francisco helped his mom cook and sell the food as much as his free time would permit. It was all he could do to help support his family, and he was happy to do it. This sparked an interest in the food industry, which is a passion he continued throughout his life.
"When I was in Mexico, I always used to look out at the Rio Grande. To me, crossing this was a small step to what I knew would be a better life."
Although his sibling left earlier, Francisco had to leave Mexico City at fourteen. He remembers looking out on the Rio Grande as a child, and "being scared because I could not swim". In spite of this fear, Francisco would immigrate for a better life of his own, and helping his parents when he could.
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