My name is Alexander Lo Russo. I started Luggage for Love because of something my mom shared with me. She’s a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), and part of her work is supporting children in the foster care system. One day, she told me how many of these kids end up carrying all their belongings in garbage bags whenever they’re moved to a new home. Hearing that upset me—it just seemed so unfair and demeaning.

I began thinking about what it must feel like to lose not only your home and sense of security but also your dignity in the process. Even something as small as having a real bag to put your things in can remind you that you matter, that you’re cared for, and that your life isn’t disposable. That was the spark for Luggage for Love. By collecting and giving out new duffel bags filled with essential items and at least one comfort item, I hope to provide a bit of hope and respect to children who are going through a really tough time. It’s about showing them that even though they might not have control over where they live, they at least have something of their own to carry what matters to them—and that there are people out there who believe in their worth.