Mila, 24 years old, NJ |

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Mila is a resilient and determined young woman who has overcome significant adversity to build a bright future for herself and her family. Raised by her grandmother before entering the foster care system as a teenager, Mila remains a devoted, steady anchor for her brother, who has low-functioning autism. Since aging out of foster care, she has secured her own apartment and is focused on personal growth. Determined to achieve stability, Mila is working toward earning her GED with plans to pursue a nursing career. Creative and multitalented, she enjoys reading, park walks, making jewelry, songwriting, singing, and photography, with dreams of one day exploring acting and modeling.

Mila has faced a lot of challenges in her life. She’s been working hard in therapy to heal from her past. Growing up, she was separated from her only sibling, who lives in a group home because of his disability. Mila herself spent time in a group home before aging out, which has been tough for her. Her parents have had their own struggles, and it's been a lonely journey for both her and her brother. Right now, Mila works as a per diem employee, so her income is irregular. Despite this, she’s determined to get her GED to find a more stable job. Recently, Mila found a winter coat she really loves; it’s warm, durable, and can turn into a puffer vest. Since she has anemia, she really needs it to stay warm, especially for Christmas. She hopes to get this coat not just for warmth but also to feel confident and stylish for years to come.