Brooklyn Projects skate shop owner Dom DeLuca has long been known around his block for looking out for people.
Inside the shop, he supports his skaters and staff, making sure they are treated fairly and backed both on and off the board.
But not just that as DeLuca has helped people experiencing homelessness by handing out shoes and clothing and covering meals when he can.
He has also stepped in to help local vendors get support, including providing shirts to help raise funds.
It has never been about attention for DeLuca. It is about taking care of the people who share the same streets and sidewalks every day.
That sense of loyalty is what got him pissed off on his recent post calling out President Donald Trump's United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
DeLuca shared a message focused on a paletero who has worked Melrose Avenue for more than 15 years.
According to DeLuca, the vendor is someone Brooklyn Projects has supported for well over a decade with clothes, shoes, money, and friendship.
He described the paletero as part of the neighborhood itself and says he would stand by him without hesitation.
In the post, DeLuca wrote that the good homie represents the heart of the community and followed the message with a blunt statement aimed at ICE.
His post fits a pattern seen throughout his work with Brooklyn Projects, showing up for others when they need it and speaking plainly when something feels wrong.
DeLuca Posted:
"We love our paletero 🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻
Hardest working person we know. He’s been working Melrose Avenue for over 15 years and we have been hooking him up with clothing,shoes, money and friendship for all those 15 plus years.
He is the fabric of our community and we will anything for him. F@&K ICE
#melrose
#brooklynprojects"