Joel, 16 years old, TX

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Joel entered the care system several years ago, along with his siblings, due to neglect. He is currently placed in a residential treatment facility nearly 350 miles from his hometown, which has left him separated from everything and everyone he knew before entering care. Joel has a close bond with his older sisters, who were adopted or aged out and are now living independently. His oldest sister is in the process of remodeling her home to pass a home study so that Joel can move in with her. Joel is a kind and intelligent teenager who enjoys playing football, basketball, and video games.

Joel is a bright and respectful young man who's currently living in a group home with other boys his age. In this home, gaining access to electronics is seen as a privilege, granted for consistently good behavior—a goal that Joel has been dedicated to achieving. While his friends enjoy tablets and other devices, Joel finds himself without any electronics of his own. It's not that he hasn't earned it; he has, but he simply lacks family support to purchase one for him. Joel wishes for a tablet that he can use at both school and home. This device wouldn't just help with his education; it would also help him feel more connected with his peers. Having his own tablet would reinforce all the positive choices he’s been making and serve as a tangible reminder that hard work brings opportunities. Joel is doing everything right; he just needs someone to believe in him and help make this important step a reality.