Nelle, 13 years old, OH | 14 DAYS WAITING

Wish submitted by:

Nelle is a bright, caring, and creative girl. She entered foster care due to family challenges related to substance abuse and has faced significant trauma and difficult experiences at a young age. Since entering foster care, Nelle has been actively involved in therapy and connected with a mentorship program that has supported her growth and confidence. While therapy has been challenging at times, she continues to try her best and make the most of every opportunity. Nelle is also very funny and truly lights up every room she enters. Through her hard work and dedication, she recently earned a place on the honor roll, which she is very proud of. Nelle is also involved in modeling and dance, where she continues to express herself creatively and thrive.

Nelle's foster mom and support team have seen her grow in maturity, responsibility, and positive decision-making. Nelle is hoping for a phone so she can better communicate with her foster mom while participating in cheerleading, dance, volleyball, and other activities. She is also excited to stay connected with both new and longtime friends as she prepares to start a new high school this fall. Nelle has never had a cell phone before, so receiving her first phone would be especially meaningful. For many teens, a phone is a normal part of growing up, but for Nelle it would represent trust, encouragement, independence, and recognition of all the hard work she has put in to overcome challenges. A cell phone would support her continued success and help her stay connected as she begins this next chapter in high school.