Miguel, 19 years old, OR | 19 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

The Lost & Found Institute

Miguel grew up living with his uncle because his parents faced some tough challenges that made it unsafe for him to stay with them. His uncle worked hard to provide a stable home and support Miguel during his childhood. However, things became more difficult as Miguel got older. After a tough situation at home, he ended up in foster care as a teenager, which meant he had to leave his uncle and the life he knew behind. This change was really hard for him, and adjusting to a new home wasn’t easy at all. During this tough time, Miguel found comfort in the outdoors. Camping became his special escape—a place where he could relax, think, and feel free. Whether he was hiking in the woods, sleeping under the stars, or sitting by a calm lake, being in nature helped him cope with everything going on around him. Miguel also has two younger siblings who are still in foster care, and he hopes they can be reunited with their uncle soon. He worries a lot about them, knowing how hard it is to be away from family and in a new situation. Miguel wishes for them to have the same stability and love he experienced with their uncle. Until then, he tries to stay connected with them, letting them know they’re not alone. No matter what, Miguel is determined to support his siblings, just like he wished someone had done for him when he first entered foster care.

Miguel is requesting help with gas to help cover his transportation costs to and from college. With classes, studying, and other responsibilities, reliable transportation is essential for him to stay on track with his education. This gift card would ease the financial burden of gas expenses, allowing him to focus on his studies and attend classes consistently without the added stress of worrying about how to get to campus. It would be a practical and meaningful way to support Miguel in his academic journey. This wish has been divided up so that Miguel can make several trips. This is wish 1 of 2.