New Bedford Fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Hospital
The Helping Hands of Farmers for St. Jude is a local organization that for 24 years has raised money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
How much money? Nearly $500,000.
The nonprofit group is staging its 2024 benefit for St. Jude's on October 19 from 6 p.m. to 12 p.m. at the New Bedford Sports Club at 1700 Acushnet Avenue.
Organizers Tony Ambelina and Joe Perreira stopped by Townsquare Sunday this week to talk about the history of the fundraiser and why they donate to St. Jude.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is located in Memphis, Tennessee and is one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers. Founded by entertainer Danny Thomas, its mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.
It's certainly a noble cause, but some might wonder why the Helping Hands organization didn't select a charity closer to home.
"We have a committee and people have different ideas," Ambelina said. "The committee feels we started with St. Jude's and that's where we want to donate."
Ambelina said the committee has discussed changing their focus in the past but each year has settled on St. Jude.
"There are other organizations working locally," Perreira said. " We try to do the best we can, and maybe we'll change in the future, but right now the committee has decided to stay with St. Jude's."
The group first started raising money by selling farm animals. In 2017, it changed to a dinner format. This year's event will feature pork, ribs and fish dinners, live entertainment featuring Nelia and Tony Borges, plus a live auction and Chinese auction.
Ambelina said all of the money raised will go to St. Jude's, because everything – the venue, food and entertainment – is donated.
"We don't spend a penny in expenses," he said.
A limited number of tickets are still available. Tickets are $50 for adults, $25 for children 12 and under. For tickets, call Maria at (774) 284-2235 or Suzette at (774) 320-0336.
If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.
SouthCoast Locations for Stunning Fall Foliage Views
Gallery Credit: Ariel Dorsey