Nyla, 13 years old, CA | 1 DAY WAITING |

Wish submitted by:

Voices for Children - San Diego

Nyla was placed into protective custody by child welfare services in November 2024, along with her six siblings, due to evidence of neglect, starvation, and the tragic death of her one-year-old brother. She and four of her siblings were returned to their parents' custody until February 2025, when they were placed back into protective custody following their parents' arrest on murder charges related to her brother's death. Fortunately, Nyla and her siblings were able to move in with their maternal grandparents, who recently gained custody of her newborn baby brother, making her one of eight siblings. Nyla is a self-proclaimed girly girl who loves dancing, putting together outfits, and giggling with her school friends after years of inconsistent school attendance. She has adjusted very well socially and emotionally to her new home and academic environment, and she is content and looking forward to the future.

Nyla has shown remarkable resilience in the face of difficult and tumultuous circumstances. She is loving towards her siblings and grandparents. Entering middle school can be challenging, especially as peers often become more critical of one another. When Nyla entered foster care, there were concerns reported about her hygiene, including body odor and a lack of clean clothes. Though she is bubbly and upbeat, she wants to fit in like any other girl her age. Sharing resources among her seven siblings is a significant challenge. This holiday season, Nyla wishes for a skincare set that would give her the chance to feel like a typical girl. She dreams of wearing face masks, enjoying floral and sweet-scented lotions, and learning a new skincare routine to boost her confidence.