In the heart of Montgomery County’s Long Branch neighborhood, a beloved Latin restaurant has long been a cornerstone of both culture and community. El Golfo, easily recognized by the vibrant toucan mural on its exterior, has been run by the Villatoro family for over two decades. But now, the family that has consistently given to others is in need of support themselves. Ada Villatoro, the matriarch behind El Golfo, is facing Stage 4 breast cancer, and the community she’s served for years is rallying around her.

Since her diagnosis in February 2023, Ada has continued to manage the restaurant from home, showing resilience and dedication even through the most difficult days. Her son, Ricky Villatoro, describes her as a "go-getter"—a fitting term for someone who has built both a business and a reputation for generosity in the neighborhood. I found this detail striking: even while battling a life-threatening illness, Ada remains focused on helping others.

El Golfo is more than just a dining destination. It’s a gathering place, a cultural hub, and a testament to the Villatoro family's commitment to their community. But like many small businesses, the restaurant has been impacted by the economic challenges of recent years. Ricky noted that even well-established establishments like theirs are feeling the strain, with slimmer profit margins and fewer customers. The financial burden of Ada’s treatment—compounded by a recent mastectomy, changes in insurance coverage, and the rising cost of care—has made the situation even more difficult.

To help offset these mounting expenses, the family launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $30,000. As of Monday afternoon, over $25,000 had already been raised, a testament to how deeply Ada’s kindness has touched others. The campaign’s success underscores the power of community fundraising and the enduring bonds between local businesses and the people they serve.

Ada’s history of service is well-known in Long Branch. After the Flower Branch Apartment explosion in August 2016, she provided meals for first responders. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, El Golfo organized another GoFundMe campaign to fund meals for healthcare workers. These acts of generosity are not isolated incidents—they are part of a broader pattern of giving that has defined Ada’s approach to both business and life.

That spirit of giving has not gone unnoticed. Annie Tulkin, Vice President of the Long Branch Business League and a neighborhood resident, said the community’s response to Ada’s situation is no surprise. “It’s also a really great reminder of how thoughtful people in our community are and how loved she is,” Tulkin shared. Even amid her illness, Ada continues to look outward. When flooding recently displaced residents of nearby apartments, she immediately asked how she could help.

This story of one woman’s strength and a community’s compassion is both moving and instructive. It highlights the fragile balance many small businesses face, especially when personal and professional challenges collide. It also shows how local support networks can make a meaningful difference in times of crisis. For those searching for breast cancer support stories or examples of community fundraising for medical bills, Ada’s journey offers both inspiration and a call to action.

For over 21 years, El Golfo has fed more than just appetites—it has nourished a community. Now, as Ada Villatoro fights her most difficult battle yet, that same community is returning the favor with heartfelt donations, kind words, and unwavering support. As Ricky expressed, the family is deeply grateful for the overwhelming response. Their story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and the profound impact of kindness, especially when it’s given without hesitation.

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