Kayla, 19 years old

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Kayla came into foster care when she was 12 years old. Her mother was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which became manic and unsafe. She was placed into a resource home with a loving family that has been with her since the beginning. As the couple is now aging, Kayla felt it best to find her own apartment closer to her cosmetology school so that she can learn to be independent and also alleviate some of the financial stress on the couple she now considers family. She is studying to become a makeup artist and is also in the process of getting her driver's license.

Kayla has recently embarked on an exciting new chapter, moving into her very first apartment. However, this newfound independence comes with its own set of challenges. Despite her eagerness to settle in, she finds herself struggling to afford the essential items needed to create a cozy home. Most of her hard-earned income goes directly toward financing her cosmetology degree, leaving little room in her budget for groceries or household essentials. As she dreams of the delicious meals she could whip up, the reality is that her current food options are largely limited to quick, unhealthy convenience meals. With the desire to save money and eat better, Kayla is determined to learn the art of cooking. Unfortunately, the apartment, though furnished, is equipped with outdated and somewhat precarious cookware, raising concerns about safety as she navigates her culinary aspirations. Despite the hurdles, Kayla is committed to making her apartment a warm, welcoming space that reflects her personality and helps her thrive.