Ruby, 18 years old, CA | 3 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

California Youth Connection

From a young age, life was a constant struggle for Ruby. Raised by a single mother who tirelessly cared for five children, Ruby rarely had the opportunity for fun adventures or downtime. While other kids enjoyed carefree days, new toys, and trendy clothes, Ruby faced a reality filled with hand-me-downs and financial strain. Their mother, a selfless woman, juggled multiple jobs, sacrificing her own dreams for the comfort of her children. Despite these challenges, Ruby remains a positive individual with high hopes for her future.

Ruby has spent much of her life moving from place to place, learning to let go of what she cannot carry. A camera would provide her with something permanent in a world of constant change, allowing her to capture moments that prove she was present and that her life holds meaning beyond case notes and court dates. Through photography, Ruby can tell her own story, build confidence in her voice, and see herself not just as a foster youth, but as a creator with a future worth focusing on.