Sophia, 11 years old | 25 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

Directions for Living

Sophia lives with her maternal grandmother after being removed from her biological parents' home. She entered foster care at the age of 2 and has experienced multiple foster placements throughout her life. Currently in the sixth grade, she consistently makes the Honor Roll. Her teachers report that she is an excellent writer. In her new school, Sophia enjoys participating in dance, cheerleading, and volleyball. Despite facing many challenges in her young life, she remains friendly and kind to everyone she meets.

Sophia would love the benefit of the use of a gym mat as a supportive tool to help reduce anxiety and encourage social engagement through movement. The mat provides a safe, defined space where she can comfortably express herself through dance, an activity she enjoys and finds soothing. This can serve as a calming sensory outlet while also promoting participation in group movement or dance-based activities, fostering both emotional regulation and peer interaction.