MIAMI — Throughout December, Kenisha Anthony is giving back to the community with a focus on teens in foster care — a cause shaped by her own life experience.

Anthony entered the foster care system at age four and later aged out. She knows firsthand what it feels like to go without a Christmas gift.

“Each Christmas for me was different depending on whose home I lived in, what type of gift I received,” Anthony said. “Some Christmas I didn’t receive any gifts. It was something I learned to live with.”

Now a social worker, Anthony leads the effort through Kenisha’s Kith Foundation, relying on financial support from community members and local businesses to make the holiday initiative possible.

Her goal is simple: give teens what they actually want from their wish lists. When budgets fall short, she offers gift cards instead, allowing them the freedom to choose for themselves.

“If I’m unable to do that because of budget issues, I provide them with a gift card — go to the mall with their friends, pick up a shirt or makeup from Sephora,” Anthony said. “Giving them the liberty to choose.”

That sense of choice, Anthony hopes, will have a lasting impact.

“I just want them to be happy for themselves,” she said.

The gift distribution will take place next Saturday at Roots Bookstore & Market in Miami from 1 to 4 p.m. The event is open to the public.

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