From Foster Care to Future Nurse – Help Me Keep Going

Hi, my name is Lyric Page , and I’m a former foster youth working hard to build a better future.

I was placed in foster care when I was 14 years old, and since then, I’ve done everything I can to stay strong and keep moving forward. I graduated from high school in 2019, and I completed the CNA program at Riverside City College. Now, I’m pursuing my dream of becoming a nurse—not just for a job, but to give back and help others the way I wish I had been helped growing up.

I’ve applied for scholarships, grants, and programs. I’ve stretched every resource I could find. But even with all of that, I’m still facing a big challenge: surviving financially while going to school full time. [ I also took on responsibility of becoming an honor student on the campus. Also, I am a guardian scholar which represents foster youth and also a Seed Program alumni.]

Right now, my basic monthly expenses are around $3,000—this includes rent, food, transportation, school supplies, and other essentials. Without family support or a safety net, it’s been incredibly hard to make ends meet.

36,000 is 12 months of bills being paid while I’m in school I will be working as a CNA on Saturday and Sunday, but I can only really work during those days. For every $3000 saves me a month to focus on school.

I’m asking for help—not because I don’t want to work hard, but because I already am. I just need a little extra support so I can focus on my education and take the final steps toward becoming a self-sufficient, independent adult.

If you’re able to contribute, even just a little, it means the world to me. And if you’re not able to give, sharing this with someone who might be is just as appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

With gratitude,

Lyric Page