Ione, 18 years old, VA

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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.

Every evening, Ione sits beside the cage of her two hamsters, Salt and Pepper, and watches them stuff their cheeks and scurry through their tunnels. It is one of the most peaceful parts of her day. Hamster treats would let her reward the pair for being such sweet, curious companions, and give her a calm, predictable way to bond with them at the end of the day. She would hand out a treat, watch them tuck it away, and enjoy the small ritual that settles her mind. On a tight budget, even small extras are hard to afford, and Ione always puts her pets first. Treats for her tiny friends are a simple way to show gratitude to the ones who bring her comfort.