Miss USA Packs Trash Bags to Highlight Foster Care Reality

Miss Virginia USA Justus Kelley is making waves at the Miss USA competition not just with her presence, but with a powerful statement. Kelley arrived in Miami for the 75th annual Miss USA competition, intentionally packing her luggage in trash bags.

This deliberate choice reflects her experience as a foster parent and founder of Foster Footprints, an organization supporting foster youth in the DMV area. She stated that a trash bag should never be a child's suitcase, advocating for foster children to carry their belongings with dignity.

Kelley and her husband have been licensed foster parents for nearly two years in Virginia. They have welcomed children aged 7 months to 10 years into their home, currently fostering a sibling pair. Kelley believes every child deserves stability, love, and a safe environment, regardless of their circumstances.

Her participation in Miss USA is also a platform to raise awareness for the foster care community, a cause she passionately champions. The pageant finale is set for August 27 in Miami.