Elena, 13 years old, CA | 1 DAY WAITING

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Elena has experienced an emotional rollercoaster in her young life, shaped by the challenges and abuse she witnessed in her parents’ relationship. These experiences left her struggling with her own mental health, including major depressive disorder, behavioral difficulties, and questions about her self-identity. Although reunited with her mother, Elena has continued to face these struggles. Yet, she has made remarkable progress. With the support of her therapists and psychiatrists, Elena has worked hard to manage her emotions and strengthen her mental health. One of her greatest outlets has been her art — she creates beautiful pieces that help her cope, express herself, and find emotional balance. Elena’s journey is ongoing, but her dedication to healing and her creative spirit show how far she has come and how much hope lies ahead.

Elena is in need of a new backpack because her previous one has become worn out, and she recently transferred to a new school. This transition has been especially difficult for her, as she had to leave her former school due to bullying. Having a clean, sturdy, and new backpack would help her feel more confident in her new environment and reduce the risk of further bullying or embarrassment. Elena’s mother is unable to work legally due to her immigration status, making it challenging to afford school supplies and other essentials. A new backpack would provide Elena with something she can feel proud of and help ease some of the stress the family is experiencing.