Hi, my name is Maria Gallardo, and along with my classmates Brianna, Casey, and Cindy, we are MSW (Master of Social Work) students raising funds for a community class project focused on supporting foster youth.

As young adults age out of foster care, many are stepping into independent and college living without the support systems that others may have. We wanted to find a meaningful way to give back and support the future of our community—starting with those who need it most. As students ourselves, this project is especially meaningful to us.

For our project, we are creating care baskets for foster youth transitioning into independent and college living. These baskets are meant to provide both practical support and encouragement during a major life transition.

Each basket may include:

Basic household items

Hygiene and self-care products

School supplies

Gift cards for food or everyday essentials

Our goal is to help ease the transition into independence and remind these young adults that they are supported, valued, and not alone.

Every donation—no matter the amount—goes directly toward building these care baskets and making a real difference.

Thank you for supporting our project and helping us invest in the future of our community.