Meet Liz

Liz was brought to our attention by the New York State Chaplin.  After being diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer and losing her business as a result of the pandemic, Liz and her family experienced extreme financial distress. Liz was not only enduring the emotional stress of undergoing treatment but was also worrying about how she was going to survive financially.  She is a mom of 6 (3 sets of twins) with the youngest set of twins being severely autistic.  After speaking with Liz and hearing her story, the foundation decided to take immediate action.  With her family on the verge of losing their home, trying to apply for public assistance and benefits as well as not knowing how or where shoes or winter coats would be coming from for her growing family, we came into her life to ease their financial burden during this challenging time.  Throughout the year, we paid the mortgage on their home and we’ll continue to do so. In addition, we have supplied food, clothing, gifts for birthdays and Christmas presents. The foundation will continue to support this amazing family. 



Meet Frankie & Drew

Frankie and Drew, seen here, are both living with special needs and preparing to begin college in Fall 2022. Two boys, that were not considered at one point be college-bound defied the odds through tenacity, familial support and the work of our organization. The parents worked diligently and had many struggles to find the right result to bring these young men to this point. Without the proper guidance, support and tools needed to achieve their utmost developmental skills, many individuals are not able to reach their full potential. We believe everyone should be set up for success. Drew and Frankie will both be receiving a 4-year scholarship. The scholarship will be providing full financial support for the programs needed during their undergraduate years.

Drew will be attending St. Thomas Aquinas College. He has been awarded The Christian J. Santo Pathways Scholarship. Pathways focuses on developing the academic and self-advocacy skills of goal-oriented, self-motivated students with disabilities. They provide mentorship sessions twice a week and workshops to enhance their skills as future professionals. The program provides services beyond those required under the law. This program will give Drew the individual service needed to be most successful.

UPDATE – Drew

Drew has recently attended spring training in Florida with the STAC baseball team. He was given his own STAC baseball jersey. He is considered to be a teammate. He attends all games and functions. Academically Drew is working very hard and doing well.


UPDATE – Frankie

Frankie is attending Lynn University starting this August 2022 in Boca Raton, Florida. Frankie has his heart set on being a theater major. Frankie is motivated, determined and has a dynamic personality. Sometimes individuals need a little extra help to adapt to life changing experiences. The Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation is making sure that Frankie gets the financial support needed for independent living over the next 4 years of his journey.

“hey karen!! its frank mirabella. i have been meaning to text you for the longest time but saying i’ve been busy is a huge understatement HAHA i’m sorry!! i just wanted to check in and i really hope you’re well. i wanted to thank you so much again for giving me the opportunity to continue chasing my dreams because if it wasn’t for your generosity i wouldn’t be here today. once again i hope you’re  doing well and i miss you and everyone at the max more than anything i cannot wait to see everyone soon ❤️ love you karen thanks for everything again.

I responded and spoke with him to give him support.” – Frank’s Family

Letter from Lauren Basile

Drew’s Mom

My son Drew Basile was born with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and Nystagmus leaving him legally blind. Drew had many struggles and obstacles to overcome growing up with a vision impairment, especially regarding his education and socialization. As Drew grew and progressed through school it became clear we had to make decisions about his future after High School. My belief has always been that all kids should be able to have the opportunity to go away to college in order to gain a sense of independence and responsibility. As this major life decision grew closer, I was extremely nervous and anxious about helping Drew make the “right” decision. To be perfectly honest, I did not think living away was the right fit for Drew. Then, as life turns out, I meet Karen Santo. We attended the same gym but at different times. I believe that our angles up above put us in contact and this is how Drew and I learned about St. Thomas Aquinas College and its Pathways program for students with disabilities. St. Thomas Aquinas is the college Karen’s son Christian attended, was a part of the Pathway’s program, and played on the baseball team. When Drew and I visited we instantly fell in love. I knew deep down that the only way for me to be comfortable with Drew attending and living away at college was to be accepted into the Pathway’s program. Shortly after applying to the college and the Pathway’s program, we received the news that he was accepted to both. I can’t even describe how happy we were. We were then totally surprised when at the Drag Queen Brunch Karen awarded Drew the Christian J. Santo Scholarship. The scholarship was for Drew’s acceptance to the Pathway’s program for the next four years of school. The scholarship was life-changing for us. For me, this would lift the financial pressure of an additional cost added to the tuition bill, and for Drew, this would give him the help and assistance he would need to be a successful college student. Not only did the foundation award Drew the scholarship, but they also hired individual subject tutors which allowed Drew to perform at his full potential.
Drew also became the manager of the baseball team, traveling to home and away games during spring training and regular season games. As long as the games did not interfere with school work he attended all games and practices. Drew is considered a teammate and friend to all of the players which has tremendously impacted him socially, an area which was a struggle while growing up. The foundation has impacted our lives in the most rewarding and positive ways. Our angels up above lead us to our angles here in Brooklyn, and they are Karen and Billy Santo. Karen and Billy became Drew’s extended family. They have been fully committed to Drew and provided constant support, encouragement, and the occasional “Pep-Talk” as Drew would speak to Karen on a regular basis (Probably more than he spoke to me). Since attending St. Thomas Aquinas College Drew has been a completely changed person. I dropped him off in August as a nervous, anxious boy and quickly saw him change into a confident, happy, and successful young man. I finally witnessed my son flourish socially and academically. Socially, Drew has grown immensely, with a great friend group within the baseball team as well as other students attending the college. Drew attends any and all social events that occur on and off campus and volunteers his time at various functions held at the school. Drew has flourished academically, quite a change from his High School years. By attending sessions with his academic specialist provided by Pathways, Pathways workshops, and all private and school-based tutoring sessions, Drew was able to excel academically. Without the support, care, and love shown by Karen, Billy, and the foundation, this would have been impossible. My family and I are so proud of Drew and all of his accomplishments during his first year at college and we can’t wait to see what the coming years bring. There are no words to describe how grateful I am for Karen and Billy Santo, The Santo Foundation, and the scholarship they awarded Drew in the memory of their wonderful son Christian.

Meet Bryan

Bryan Krolikowski is a sports management major at St. Thomas Aquinas College. Bryan is presently on the Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation’s Baseball Scholarship. He is a student athlete that is committed, determined, and enthusiastic. Although life has thrown him some curve balls, Bryan does not allow this to get in his way.  Everyone’s story need not to be told but what will be told is that this young man couldn’t be more deserving of this scholarship.


Letter from Evan

Letters from Ashley & Joe Martucci

Update from Mrs. Martucci

Letter from Matthew

Organizations We Support

  • Futures In Education: The Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation is sponsoring the education of a child from Ukraine who came as a refugee and is in need of a quality education. We will continue to provide financial support for this child to excel in a Grammar School Catholic education. We have become their angel – we have become their “Number 9”.
  • St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
  • NIA Community Services
  • Adel Amir Mortgage
  • Michael’s Cause (Fighting DMD)
  • Bridge to Youth (Valentine’s Party for Autistic Children)
  • Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
  • Evan Kreth College Scholarship
  • Steven Martucci College Scholarship
  • David Fraser Jr. College Scholarship
  • Christina & Saul Welger Foundation
  • 2020 Paralympic Games Tokyo
  • Boy Scout Troop 237


    • Meet Liz

    Liz was brought to our attention by the New York State Chaplin.  After being diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer and losing her business as a result of the pandemic, Liz and her family experienced extreme financial distress. Liz was not only enduring the emotional stress of undergoing treatment but was also worrying about how she was going to survive financially.  She is a mom of 6 (3 sets of twins) with the youngest set of twins being severely autistic.  After speaking with Liz and hearing her story, the foundation decided to take immediate action.  With her family on the verge of losing their home, trying to apply for public assistance and benefits as well as not knowing how or where shoes or winter coats would be coming from for her growing family, we came into her life to ease their financial burden during this challenging time.  Throughout the year, we paid the mortgage on their home and we’ll continue to do so. In addition, we have supplied food, clothing, gifts for birthdays and Christmas presents. The foundation will continue to support this amazing family. 


    Meet Frankie & Drew

    Frankie and Drew, seen here, are both living with special needs and preparing to begin college in Fall 2022. Two boys, that were not considered at one point be college-bound defied the odds through tenacity, familial support and the work of our organization. The parents worked diligently and had many struggles to find the right result to bring these young men to this point. Without the proper guidance, support and tools needed to achieve their utmost developmental skills, many individuals are not able to reach their full potential. We believe everyone should be set up for success. Drew and Frankie will both be receiving a 4-year scholarship. The scholarship will be providing full financial support for the programs needed during their undergraduate years.

    Drew will be attending St. Thomas Aquinas College. He has been awarded The Christian J. Santo Pathways Scholarship. Pathways focuses on developing the academic and self-advocacy skills of goal-oriented, self-motivated students with disabilities. They provide mentorship sessions twice a week and workshops to enhance their skills as future professionals. The program provides services beyond those required under the law. This program will give Drew the individual service needed to be most successful.

    UPDATE – Drew

    Drew has recently attended spring training in Florida with the STAC baseball team. He was given his own STAC baseball jersey. He is considered to be a teammate. He attends all games and functions. Academically Drew is working very hard and doing well.


    UPDATE – Frankie

    Frankie is attending Lynn University starting this August 2022 in Boca Raton, Florida. Frankie has his heart set on being a theater major. Frankie is motivated, determined and has a dynamic personality. Sometimes individuals need a little extra help to adapt to life changing experiences. The Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation is making sure that Frankie gets the financial support needed for independent living over the next 4 years of his journey.

    “hey karen!! its frank mirabella. i have been meaning to text you for the longest time but saying i’ve been busy is a huge understatement HAHA i’m sorry!! i just wanted to check in and i really hope you’re well. i wanted to thank you so much again for giving me the opportunity to continue chasing my dreams because if it wasn’t for your generosity i wouldn’t be here today. once again i hope you’re  doing well and i miss you and everyone at the max more than anything i cannot wait to see everyone soon ❤️ love you karen thanks for everything again.

    I responded and spoke with him to give him support.” – Frank’s Family

    Letter from Lauren Basile

    Drew’s Mom

    My son Drew Basile was born with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and Nystagmus leaving him legally blind. Drew had many struggles and obstacles to overcome growing up with a vision impairment, especially regarding his education and socialization. As Drew grew and progressed through school it became clear we had to make decisions about his future after High School. My belief has always been that all kids should be able to have the opportunity to go away to college in order to gain a sense of independence and responsibility. As this major life decision grew closer, I was extremely nervous and anxious about helping Drew make the “right” decision. To be perfectly honest, I did not think living away was the right fit for Drew. Then, as life turns out, I meet Karen Santo. We attended the same gym but at different times. I believe that our angles up above put us in contact and this is how Drew and I learned about St. Thomas Aquinas College and its Pathways program for students with disabilities. St. Thomas Aquinas is the college Karen’s son Christian attended, was a part of the Pathway’s program, and played on the baseball team. When Drew and I visited we instantly fell in love. I knew deep down that the only way for me to be comfortable with Drew attending and living away at college was to be accepted into the Pathway’s program. Shortly after applying to the college and the Pathway’s program, we received the news that he was accepted to both. I can’t even describe how happy we were. We were then totally surprised when at the Drag Queen Brunch Karen awarded Drew the Christian J. Santo Scholarship. The scholarship was for Drew’s acceptance to the Pathway’s program for the next four years of school. The scholarship was life-changing for us. For me, this would lift the financial pressure of an additional cost added to the tuition bill, and for Drew, this would give him the help and assistance he would need to be a successful college student. Not only did the foundation award Drew the scholarship, but they also hired individual subject tutors which allowed Drew to perform at his full potential.

    Drew also became the manager of the baseball team, traveling to home and away games during spring training and regular season games. As long as the games did not interfere with school work he attended all games and practices. Drew is considered a teammate and friend to all of the players which has tremendously impacted him socially, an area which was a struggle while growing up. The foundation has impacted our lives in the most rewarding and positive ways. Our angels up above lead us to our angles here in Brooklyn, and they are Karen and Billy Santo. Karen and Billy became Drew’s extended family. They have been fully committed to Drew and provided constant support, encouragement, and the occasional “Pep-Talk” as Drew would speak to Karen on a regular basis (Probably more than he spoke to me). Since attending St. Thomas Aquinas College Drew has been a completely changed person. I dropped him off in August as a nervous, anxious boy and quickly saw him change into a confident, happy, and successful young man. I finally witnessed my son flourish socially and academically. Socially, Drew has grown immensely, with a great friend group within the baseball team as well as other students attending the college. Drew attends any and all social events that occur on and off campus and volunteers his time at various functions held at the school. Drew has flourished academically, quite a change from his High School years. By attending sessions with his academic specialist provided by Pathways, Pathways workshops, and all private and school-based tutoring sessions, Drew was able to excel academically. Without the support, care, and love shown by Karen, Billy, and the foundation, this would have been impossible. My family and I are so proud of Drew and all of his accomplishments during his first year at college and we can’t wait to see what the coming years bring. There are no words to describe how grateful I am for Karen and Billy Santo, The Santo Foundation, and the scholarship they awarded Drew in the memory of their wonderful son Christian.


    Meet Bryan

    Bryan Krolikowski is a sports management major at St. Thomas Aquinas College. Bryan is presently on the Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation’s Baseball Scholarship. He is a student athlete that is committed, determined, and enthusiastic. Although life has thrown him some curve balls, Bryan does not allow this to get in his way.  Everyone’s story need not to be told but what will be told is that this young man couldn’t be more deserving of this scholarship.

    Letter from Evan


    Letters from Ashley & Joe Martucci

    Update from Mrs. Martucci

    Letter from Matthew

    Organizations We Support

  • Futures In Education: The Christian J. Santo Legacy Foundation is sponsoring the education of a child from Ukraine who came as a refugee and is in need of a quality education. We will continue to provide financial support for this child to excel in a Grammar School Catholic education. We have become their angel – we have become their “Number 9”.
  • St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
  • NIA Community Services
  • Adel Amir Mortgage
  • Michael’s Cause (Fighting DMD)
  • Bridge to Youth (Valentine’s Party for Autistic Children)
  • Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
  • Evan Kreth College Scholarship
  • Steven Martucci College Scholarship
  • David Fraser Jr. College Scholarship
  • Christina & Saul Welger Foundation
  • 2020 Paralympic Games Tokyo
  • Boy Scout Troop 237