A memorial fund set up after the loss of one family’s daughter has brought hope and happiness to many throughout New Jersey.
The Calafiore family, of Rockaway, have been touching others by helping raise money for families with children in need.
"One of the ways people find us is through the local papers," said Sammy Calafiore, father of 5-year-old Lorene Calafiore, who passed away in August 2002.
The Calafiores started the Samantha Lorene Calafiore Memorial Fund Inc after the passing of Samantha, and use money they collect from the fund to help families with children in need. Today, they have helped dozens of families, providing money for a variety of needs, be it much-needed surgery or helping another family start an organization.
Money from the fund has also provided defibrillators to churches and schools.
To raise further capital so they can keep helping their fellow New Jersey residents, the Calafiores will be hosting a dinner on Oct. 11 at the Meat Cutters Union Hall, located at 245 Paterson Ave. in Little Falls.
"The dinner was my wife Sharon’s idea," said Sammy, who is a lieutenant with the Little Falls Police Department.
"The guys at police department have been great," he said. "Over the years they have been making donations."
On average, the Calafiories give about $500 to each family in need from the fund.
All are invited to attend the dinner fundraiser. Proceeds will go to the Samantha Lorene Calafiore Memorial Fund. Tickets are $55. There will be a DJ and an Elvis impersonator for entertainment, and food served will have a southwest theme. For more information on the Samantha Fund or for tickets, contact Sharon at 201-874-8072 or visit www.samanthafund.com.
