Tina, 20 years old, OR | 11 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

The Lost & Found Institute

Tina moved to the United States with her parents but ended up in foster care shortly after. This was a tough time for her because adjusting to a new country was already hard, and being away from her family made it worse. To cope, Tina holds onto the things that make her happy. She loves to sing and is often found humming songs or writing lyrics in her notebook. Music and writing help her express her feelings when it’s too difficult to talk. Tina also enjoys spending time outdoors, whether she’s taking a walk, sitting under a tree, or just soaking up the sun. Being in nature gives her a sense of calm. Another passion of hers is cooking. She likes to try new recipes, especially those that remind her of her home and culture. For Tina, cooking is a way to care for others and stay connected to her roots. Even when life is uncertain, her creativity and appreciation for simple pleasures shine bright.

Tina has her heart set on a cozy Ugg blanket. She loves anything soft and warm, and a Ugg blanket is at the top of her list. She imagines wrapping up in it after school, reading her favorite books, or watching movies on the couch. Having something that feels safe and comforting during a busy school year would mean a lot. She’s picked out her favorite color and talks about how soft it is every time she sees it in the store.