Assabet Valley Students Create 200+ Care Packages for Foster Kids

Business technology students at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School have transformed their classroom into an "assembly line of compassion," creating over 200 care packages for children entering the foster care system. What started as a goal to make 50 packages quadrupled in size, with students rallying their community to donate 2,500 items, $2,100 in cash, and support from 21 local businesses. Led by sophomore project manager Fallon Madrono, this initiative represents the culmination of a year-long Chick-fil-A sponsored leadership academy program. Partnering with the nonprofit Kits for Kids, students filled backpacks with hygiene essentials and comfort items organized by age group, knowing that children entering foster care often can't take personal belongings with them. The packages will be distributed through the Department of Children and Families, ensuring vulnerable youth know they are "seen, never alone, and valued" while teaching these young leaders that education extends far beyond the classroom to create meaningful community impact.