Cristina’s Resilience

Cristina Santo is a proud Custom Collaborative Graduate currently serving as the Alumni Coordinator and collaborator at Art to Ware and Regenerated fashion establishments. Her journey began amidst immense challenges, finding herself in a domestic violence shelter in NYC. Custom Collaborative emerged as a transformative force, not just altering her life but also that of her children, following her graduation in 2019. 

The program's ethos, centered on fostering a love for fashion and extending opportunities to those in need, deeply resonated with Cristina even before she embarked on this journey. Throughout her experience, the steadfast support from her instructor, Daniel, and her classmates became the cornerstone of her resilience, propelling her forward despite the daily struggles of merely showing up. 

Cristina hosted a job fair event at Win Shelter in Brooklyn this fall. Several residents attended our Open House and are currently undergoing interviews for the upcoming Custom Collaborative Training Institute. Most recently Cristina showcased her holiday upcycle collection at Mara Hoffman’s store this December and . 

She shares, "With gratitude, I continue to live my purpose, thanks to this incredible organization that helped me navigate through hardship and carve a path toward a brighter future."

Grateful for the organization that became her guiding light through adversity, Cristina continues to live her purpose. Custom Collaborative not only helped her navigate through hardship but also paved the way for a brighter future.