Brookline Student Working To Make Holidays Special For Foster Children

BROOKLINE, MA — A high school student is raising money this holiday season with the goal of helping those in a position she once found herself in.

Skyla Luzzi-Porco, 17, spent more than two years in foster care until she was adopted at age seven. Her focus this holiday has been to raise funds to provide gifts to children in the foster care system through Boston CASA’s holiday toy drive.

Boston CASA recruits, trains, and supports volunteers to serve as CASAs in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties for children removed from their homes and placed in foster care. The organization currently serves more than 300 children annually through over 250 trained advocates in Suffolk and Middlesex counties. According to Boston CASA, more than 8,200 foster youth do not have the resources and support to have a fulfilling holiday season.

Luzzi-Porco’s has the goal of raising $3,000. She credited her foster mother, Karen, for giving her love and support during the most difficult time of her life that has since given her the insight and inspiration to try to provide that for other foster children.

“Christmas is my absolute favorite holiday, which I celebrate all year long," Luzzi-Porco said. "I'm so grateful to everyone who took care of me, from my foster mom Karen to social workers, DCF, family and friends. Now I want to give back and help kids currently in foster care feel loved and create joyful memories this holiday season."

Luzzi-Porco promoted her campaign through social media and by creating a presentation about Boston CASA and her background, which she shared at her church.

The fundraising campaign runs through Tuesday, Dec. 30, with all proceeds going directly to Boston CASA. Donations can still be made online.

"Skyla's campaign represents the very best of what we hope to inspire in young people who have experienced foster care," Executive Director of Boston CASA Nicole Stewart said. "Her desire to give back and ensure other children feel loved during the holiday season shows the remarkable difference one person's kindness can make."

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