Nyla, 21 years old, CA | 1 DAY WAITING | NEEDED BY 10/20

Wish submitted by:

Nyla aged out of the foster care system and knows firsthand what it is like to not have a place that feels safe or permanent. Before coming to AcademySTAY, she was unhoused, and she is now focused on building something steady for herself. She is enrolled in a construction trade program and is about to begin a carpentry apprenticeship, with a particular interest in drywall and plastering, and she is determined to turn that training into reliable work. Alongside her trade, Nyla is building the everyday skills of independent living: budgeting, financial literacy, and holding onto safe housing. She is clear about what she wants, which is a secure home of her own and work that lets her feel stable, and she shows up ready to put in the effort to get there.

After aging out of foster care and experiencing homelessness, Nyla is building a future in the construction trades. She is about to begin a nine-week carpentry apprenticeship and wants to show up dressed for the work, in proper carpenter pants built for a job site. As she puts it, it is hard to feel ready for the part when you are not dressed for it. Having the right work clothes would help her walk onto the site prepared, professional, and confident on day one.