Cai Larkin’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of community support. At 17, she has faced more hardships than many do in a lifetime. Yet, her story shines as a beacon of hope.
Growing up in Rochester, Cai’s life changed drastically when, after years of abuse and neglect, she was placed in foster care during her last two years of high school.
Like many young people who experience early trauma, Cai battled anxiety, depression, and an unhealthy relationship with food.
Despite these challenges, Cai found a lifeline in Hope 585, an organization dedicated to helping youth and families from the Western New York region to overcome trauma. Cai was introduced to Hope 585 once she was placed in foster care, and it has been an instrumental part of her journey ever since.
“There were times when I didn’t know where my next meal was coming from,” she recalls. “I lived in constant anxiety, mostly worrying about how my younger siblings would eat and grow.”
Two years ago, Cai stopped attending school to care for her younger siblings, fearing the neglect they would face from their absent parents. Eventually, Cai and her siblings were placed in different foster homes.
Hope 585 stepped in, offering Cai not just shelter, but a fresh start through its Building a Community of Hope program, supported by the Foundation. Cai received essential mental health resources and supportive mentorship, which she credits with saving her life.
Hope 585’s mentorship program gave Cai the courage to take control of her future. With its support, she finished high school and enrolled in Monroe Community College, with plans to transfer to SUNY Oswego to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian.
“Hope 585 gave me a second chance at life,” Cai says. “I never could have finished school or applied for college if they didn’t believe in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.”