Angel, 12 years old, NJ | NEEDED BY 08/29

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Angel was taken from her home as a child because of sexual abuse and medical neglect by two relatives. Unfortunately, her mother didn’t believe her and called her a liar when Angel reported the abuse. In her first four months in foster care, she moved to four different homes, which made her even more scared and unsettled. Thankfully, she eventually found a foster home where she feels safe and loved, providing her with stability. Angel learned that she might have to leave this home and could be reunited with her birth family, which frightened her. She has been expressing thoughts of self-harm due to this news. All she wants is a stable and safe home. On top of everything, Angel misses her two little brothers, whom she hasn’t seen in so long. Visits are rare because their foster homes are two and a half hours apart.

As the new school year starts, Angel really wants a specific pair of sneakers that she absolutely loves. Her current shoes are old and worn out, especially compared to the stylish ones her classmates wear. More than just shoes, she believes a pair of red Air Jordans could boost her confidence as she heads back to school. Angel has a lot on her plate, much more than her friends do, but she hopes that wearing fashionable shoes will help her fit in and hide the differences she feels. In her heart, she thinks these sneakers might help her feel accepted and give her the sense of belonging that she's been longing for.