Chefs Who Care: Celebrity Chefs support Main Street families to battle pediatric cancer
A New Jersey non-profit is serving up Italian delicacies to support the strongest warriors and their families in the Garden State.
OCEAN TOWNSHIP - The Ashley Lauren Foundation started like most Jersey stories - board members meeting at a local diner to do something big in 2005. A foundation born out of a family’s worst nightmare was destined to become a statewide force for helping others. Founder and CEO Monica Vermeulen, a cancer survivor, started the foundation after her daughter, Ashley Lauren, was diagnosed with pediatric cancer.
Now, the New Jersey non-profit is giving its supporters a taste of the Italian Riviera.
The main course? Helping other families experiencing the trauma of pediatric cancer.
On July 17th, 2023, they’re playing host to culinary veterans and Michelin star holders from New York and New Jersey for their Chefs Who Care event at the historic English Manor. Event co-chairs Eric Vitale and Gennaro Pecchia welcome a crew of culinary superstars including NYC Chefs Cesare Casella and Jacques Torres lead to serve up support alongside premium Italian wine and spirits, live entertainment, and a silent auction.
The Ashley Lauren Foundation has maintained a Jersey-centric team and board to bring global culinary players together to support New Jersey families. Major brands such as San Pellegrino, De Cecco Pasta, Urbani Truffles, D'Artagnan Meats, and Calvisius Caviar will be converging on the historic Ocean Township estate to support the non-profit.
“Chefs Who Care was specifically created for our local community,” said Fair Haven Native and Business Development Officer Michele Lanfrank. “We at the ALF strive each and every day to make these little warrior’s lives better by supporting their families in any way that is needed.”
Every dollar raised by the foundation goes to critical assistance for families in the throes of pediatric cancer. Financial and material assistance, emotional support, events for children, birthday and holiday gifts, and their “Making Dream Come True Program” provide a peaceful hand to New Jersey families.
Chefs Who Care is slated to be a fantastic evening where the rivieras of Italy and the Jersey shore meet as locals raise a glass to community and serving families enduring one of life’s biggest obstacles.
Tickets and sponsorships are still available for the event.
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