Rooted in Resilience: Empowering little Cali’s Future
|
 |
|
| |
A Safe Haven for Cali
My Calling and Cali’s Story
For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of being a mother. Though I’ve been unable to have children of my own, my heart has always been open to nurturing others. That dream felt distant until two months ago, when a little girl named Cali came into my life.
Cali is four years old, but she’s already lived through more struggles than many of us can imagine. For three of those years, she lived in a car with her mother. Her childhood was marked by uncertainty, discomfort, and a heartbreaking absence of stability. When I met Cali, I saw a bright, resilient spirit hidden beneath the weight of her circumstances.
I couldn’t ignore what I saw. I spoke with her mother and convinced her to let Cali come home with me, where I had an extra room waiting. I transformed that space into hers—a sanctuary filled with warmth, love, and the promise of a better life. For the first time, Cali had a bed to sleep in, regular meals, and a routine that made her feel safe.
A Heartbreaking Challenge
But this hasn’t been easy. Cali’s mother refuses to grant me legal guardianship, which complicates my ability to fully protect and provide for her. During her mother’s visits, Cali’s distress is palpable. Once, she broke down in tears, clinging to me and begging, “Please don’t make me go.”
I comforted her, explaining that her mother will always be her mother, and we should treat her with kindness. But Cali’s reaction—the depth of her fear and sadness—broke my heart. Her mother’s crude words and chaotic presence during visits have only reinforced my determination to give Cali the stability she deserves.
The Transformation in Cali
When Cali arrived, she had been surviving on Lunchables, SpaghettiOs, and peanut butter sandwiches. Vegetables were foreign to her, and she’d never even tasted turkey. Now, she has fresh, home-cooked meals, a routine that includes daily baths, and a quiet place to call her own.
She’s thriving. The sparkle in her eyes has returned. She’s discovering new foods, learning new words, and finding joy in the little things—a bedtime story, a hug, a sunny day in the park. Cali is a fighter, but she shouldn’t have to fight so hard just to be a child.
Why I Need Your Help
Before meeting Cali, I worked for a nonprofit, helping low-income families weatherize their homes. I loved that job because it allowed me to give back to my community. But due to car troubles, I lost that position—a setback that, in hindsight, feels like it happened for a reason. If I hadn’t lost my job, I may never have met Cali.
Now, I’ve found my calling in being a mother to her. I want to stay home to give her the stability, care, and love she needs to heal and grow. Returning to work would mean less time with her during this critical period in her life—a time when she needs someone she can count on.
A Hopeful Future for Cali
My dream is to teach Cali everything she needs to know to navigate life with confidence, kindness, and strength. I want her to know the value of hard work and the importance of treating others with respect. But above all, I want her to feel loved and safe.
Your support would give me the ability to stay home with Cali and provide for her needs—nutritious meals, educational opportunities, and the stability of a safe, loving environment. Together, we can give her the childhood she deserves and the foundation to build a bright future.
Conclusion
Cali has already endured so much in her short life. But now, she has hope. She has a home. And she has someone who loves her more than words can express.
Please help me continue to be that person for her. Together, we can change her story—one filled with love, stability, and the chance to grow into the incredible person I know she can be.
Thank you for reading our story and considering this request. Your support would mean the world to us.
With gratitude,
Teresa Jo & Caliann |
|
|
|
