The Dallas Morning News Charities-JonahHe has been training for the Coast Guard for a year, but an abusive home is making his path difficult.

Jonah wants to protect his country, but his current role is protecting his sister. If they can’t escape their abusive home situation, his dreams might be derailed. They need a place to live and food to eat.

Poverty robs people of dignity, hope and the power to determine their own future, but together we can make adifference. The Dallas Morning News Charities funds 25 local organizations that help those who are homeless, hungry and able to rehabilitate.

If you have it in your heart to help someone like Jonah get a fresh start, click here.

*The photo and name have been changed to protect the North Texan’s identity.