By Matthew Sockol
Staff Writer
The Christopher J. Morrissey Foundation is continuing its mission of helping and providing therapeutic tools and awareness to those who have faced the loss of a child.
The foundation was created in 2011 to carry on the legacy of Chris Morrissey, a graduate of St. Rose High School, Belmar, who died that year. According to a press release, more than 175 families affected by the loss of a child have been assisted by the Foundation.
On April 2, the foundation held a Run for Hope 5K run/walk at the Brick Township Reservoir. According to the press release, the event hosted almost 100 participants.
In the male category, James Humphrey of Point Pleasant Beach came in first place, Doug Campbell of Brick placed second and Jason Soares of Howell placed third, according to the press release.
In the female category, Carolyn Rodgers of Toms River came in first place, Katherine Goodale of Boston placed second and Kate Faust of Freehold placed third, according to the press release.
Along with the Run for Hope event, the foundation has distributed over $30,000 in scholarships to high school seniors, according to the press release. Foundation members have also formed partnerships with local organizations, such as the Howell Alliance and CFC Loud N Clear Foundation, to promote early drug and alcohol awareness to local youth groups in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
In addition, the foundation, along with Investors Bank, sponsors weekend grief retreats entitled “On Angel’s Wings” for mothers who have lost a child. According to the press release, the retreats are professionally facilitated and designed to provide a safe environment where mothers can express their stories and feelings with those who share their loss and understand their grief.
The foundation’s next event will be its sixth annual benefit that will raise funds for its goal of assisting families affected by the loss of a child, according to the press release. The benefit will be held on Oct. 28 at Jumping Brook Country Club, Neptune.
To assist the foundation, individuals may also become a volunteer, donate or host a fundraiser of their own, according to the press release.
More information on the foundation, its events and news, visit www.christopherjmorrisseyfoundation.org or call 732-894-9561. The foundation can be followed on Facebook, on Twitter and on Instagram at cjmfoundation.
