TOGETHER WE STAY!

Abuse, neglect, abandonment—three words that sum up the younger years of Connie, Adrienne, and Kipper's life. At one point in time, they lived in a tent in the middle of a park, with one chicken tender for dinner and a water fountain for their drink. Their mom fell in love, got married, and it ended with endless abuse and harsh punishments which resulted in broken bones, lacerations. The marriage eventually ended with their stepfather being sent to prison, and the children were neglected and out on the street to fend for themselves—but they stuck together.

The state currently houses them in a living facility, but their time is running out. Connie and Adrienne are twins, 18, graduating high school in June. Connie has aspirations of joining the Air Force, while Adrienne is solving some medical problems. Kipper is 17, excelling at school but battling some demons from his history and just wants some guidance in life bettering himself to join the Marines after graduation. They aren't looking for the world—they truly just want a home, together. They are looking for first, last, and security deposit for a place together.

Connie works part-time at a local Walmart, saving as much as she can while supporting her two siblings, and times are tough (they are for everyone!). But these kids have suffered so much trauma in 17-18 years. They aren't looking for name-brand clothes or a car. They are honestly just looking to remain a family, staying together, moving on with their lives, and going forward—every little bit counts!