Eagles safety Andrew Mukuba launches Mukuba Miracles Fund to benefit foster children

Eagles safety Andrew Mukuba knows exactly how it feels to grow up facing an uncertain future. Years before he nabbed a starting role as a rookie in 2025, he grew up in Zimbabwe as his family sought refuge from Congo. Mukuba recently launched his new foundation, Mukuba Miracles, which held its first event Thursday night.

The defensive back partnered with Turning Points for Children, a Philadelphia-based organization focused on providing care to foster children and their families. Together, they hosted over 30 foster children at the Dave and Buster’s in Penn’s Landing. Over dinner, Mukuba gifted items kids had requested, ranging from art supplies to basketball shoes to a bicycle. Afterward, the 23-year-old played arcade games with the kids.

“I’m just trying to make an impact in the communities that I’m involved in … and help in any ways that I can,” Mukuba said. “Being able to put smiles on the kids’ faces … that’s the goal for me.

The most fulfilling part of the night for Mukuba, he said, was seeing the reactions of those to whom he gave gifts.

“I was once a kid as well, and I know what a gift can mean to somebody, especially something so valuable to them,” he said.

The children attending the event had not been made aware that Mukuba would be there. As the 64th overall pick in 2025 was being introduced by Eartha Holland, Turning Points for Children’s director of stakeholder engagement and events, a large ovation ensued.

“Our kids are so humble, and they express great gratitude for the gifts,” said Ciera Carter, the organization’s director of family support services. “Our kids have been through a lot, and our program seeks to find permanent resources and connections for them.”

The event held a special meaning for Lorraine Dredden, a foster mom invited by Holland. Over the last 35 years, the Winslow Township school board member has fostered over 100 children and adopted 13. The Berlin Township native also was honored by the state’s Department of Children and Families last month for her commitment to giving foster children a home. Dredden, who had two children in attendance, felt touched during the ceremony.

“I didn’t know all of the children in here, but I was clapping so hard for them,” Dredden said. “Some of the children I had, they never knew about Christmas, so when Christmas came, they were so excited about Santa, they didn’t know what to do.

Along with growing his foundation, Mukuba is excited to get back on the field this fall. A fractured ankle ended the safety’s rookie season last November.

“The toughest part [last year] was just not being on the field,” he said. “But mentally, I felt like I was right where I needed to be at, as far as attacking rehab.”

Mukuba, who has made a full recovery, is projected to start for the Eagles alongside veteran Marcus Epps, who is in his second stint with the team. In a safety room now without Reed Blankenship, who departed for the Houston Texans, the former Clemson standout is anticipating the opportunity he likely will receive.

“I feel like a lot of people didn’t get an opportunity, and I [am] fortunate enough to get an opportunity after the injury I suffered,” he said. “So going out there and having fun all over again … that’s what I’m really looking forward to.”