Josiah, 16 years old, NJ | 1 DAY WAITING | NEEDED BY 09/05

Wish submitted by:

NJ DCFS - Essex County

Josiah is a responsible middle child who values his close relationship with his siblings. They were placed in foster care after their mother passed away, which disrupted their childhood development and exposure to the outside world. Josiah is curious about making friends outside his siblings, but is still adjusting to new environments. He enjoyed trying pizza for the first time and is learning to be comfortable with new experiences. His current foster family has training to help children with trauma, and those who meet him understand the importance of being patient as he navigates his feelings and experiences..

Josiah is actively working on staying hydrated and healthy, which is why he is asking for a water bottle he can take to school daily. Having a water bottle with him can also reduce his spending at the vending machine or local store, where he might otherwise buy sugary drinks that are not good for his health improvement goal.