Kalaya Smith, 18 years old, CA | 6 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

Kalaya is a resilient young woman currently in foster care who is working hard to complete her high school education despite the challenges she has faced. With so much change and uncertainty in her life, she continues to show determination and focus, understanding that earning her diploma is a major step toward stability and independence. Balancing school responsibilities while navigating the foster care system requires strength, maturity, and perseverance, and Kalaya demonstrates all of those qualities. She remains committed to her goals, knowing that her education is the foundation for future opportunities, whether that means college, vocational training, or entering the workforce. Kalaya’s dedication to finishing high school reflects her hope for a brighter future and her belief in building a life filled with possibilities and success.

Kalaya needs her own laptop because she is currently borrowing one from her high school, which she will have to return after graduation. As a foster youth preparing to transition into college, reliable access to a personal laptop is crucial for her success. College coursework, applications, financial aid forms, and communication with professors all require consistent computer access. Without her own device, Kalaya may struggle to complete assignments on time or stay organized, especially when relying on public computers. A laptop would not only provide stability and independence but also empower her to start her college journey fully prepared, supporting her education and future opportunities.