Dreamcatchers for Abused Children, a non-profit focused on child abuse reform, recently shared a poignant wish list from an abused child in Oklahoma. This child suffered at the hands of alcoholic parents, enduring neglect and starvation. Their harrowing story only came to light when a concerned neighbor alerted authorities.

The organization stepped in to provide a safe haven, eventually placing the child with a loving family. Upon hearing the news, the child created a wish list for their new forever home. The heartbreaking list highlights basic needs most children take for granted:

“I want food and water. Don’t hit on me. A house with running water and lights. I want love. Mom and dad don’t fight. I want no drugs. Don’t kill my pets. Help with school. Nice clean clothes. No lice. No bugs in the house. Clean house. Clean bed with covers. Don’t sell my toys. Treated fair. Don’t get drunk. TV in the house. Let me keep my school stuff. Nice shoes. My own comb, soap. A nice, safe house with heating and warm clothes. Toothbrush.”

This list serves as a stark reminder of the importance of appreciating the basic necessities many children lack and reinforces the need to protect and support abused children.