Maria, 17 years old, TX | NEEDED BY 09/25

Wish submitted by:

Maria is a bright and motivated young lady in foster care who will be doing extended care as she prepares for adulthood. She has built a strong bond with her foster family and truly loves spending time with them. Maria is fun, outgoing, and social, enjoying activities with friends and family while bringing energy and positivity wherever she goes. She is hardworking in school, takes her studies seriously, and is excited about the next chapter of her life—college. Maria is passionate about learning and determined to reach her goals, balancing her academic dedication with her love of sports, where she thrives on teamwork, challenge, and staying active. Her playful personality, strong work ethic, and enthusiasm for life make her a remarkable and inspiring young person.

For her birthday, Maria would love nothing more than a trip out for ice cream. She'd have so much fun looking over all the flavors and toppings, building a treat that's entirely her own, and sharing that little bit of joy with the people who care about her. Whether she ends up with a cone, a sundae, or a milkshake, having her favorite dessert would make the day feel a little sweeter, in every sense of the word. For kids in foster care, simple moments like this can mean more than they might seem. A trip for ice cream gives Maria a chance to laugh, connect with people who care about her, and just enjoy being a kid on her birthday. More than anything, it reminds her that her day matters and that she deserves to feel celebrated too.