Kailyn, 21 years old, PA |

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Kailyn is a senior at Arcadia who enjoys drawing and reading. Although they were never in the foster care system, they are registered as homeless independent youth, which qualifies them for the HOME program. Their family’s duplex burned down, and while they, their mother, and their sister were in the hospital, their grandfather informed them that they no longer had a place to return to because he was selling the duplex. They entered college after couch-hopping for five months with their mother and an abusive ex-boyfriend. Despite these hardships, Kailyn has remained resilient and determined, continuing to pursue their education and personal goals with hope for a more stable future.

Kailyn is asking for a pair of platform shoes. In her life, it often feels like their appearance is one of the few things they have real control over. Growing up was not easy, as they are a survivor of sexual abuse and neglect. For a long time, they neglected themselves as well because that was what they were used to. When they came to college, they made a promise to care for themselves more intentionally. Through that process, they discovered that they genuinely enjoy fashion and taking pride in how they present themselves. Dressing well makes them feel confident and empowered, and being able to choose their outfit gives them a sense of control and self-expression.