Ione, 18 years old, VA | 1 DAY WAITING

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Ione’s mornings begin with saying good morning to her dog, Waffles, who answers with a thump of his tail. Then she greets her two hamsters, Salt and Pepper, who peek out of their tunnels and wiggle their whiskers. Only when she knows everyone is accounted for and happy does she start her own day. Ione is autistic, and she thrives on routine, predictability, and quiet. Loud places and sudden changes can exhaust her, and making conversation with new people takes a great deal of energy. She entered foster care as a girl and moved through several homes, each one requiring her to learn a new set of rules, sounds, and schedules. It was hard, and it left her wary of people. Animals are different. They don’t ask her to read between the lines. They love her exactly as she is, and they have been her steadiest family through years of change. Ione is learning to live more independently, and it isn’t easy. She worries about work, money, and whether anyone will understand her. But she is gentle, unexpectedly funny, and fiercely devoted to the animals who depend on her. She hopes to work with animals someday, perhaps in a kennel or a vet clinic, where her patience and care can shine.

Waffles is Ione’s anchor, and every walk, trick, and cuddle is part of the routine that keeps her grounded. Dog treats would let her reward him for being such a loyal companion and give her a gentle way to connect with him through training and play. On a tight budget, even small things like treats can feel out of reach, and Ione always puts her animals first. For a young woman who has found her greatest comfort in her pets' unconditional love, a bag of treats is a way to say thank you to the one who has never left her side. This would give Ione a way to care for her faithful friend and a little more joy in the routines that keep her steady.