Second Annual 'Night of Angels' a Success
On Friday, Jan. 27, Alyssa’s Angels gathered for the second time in as many years at Old Orchard Country Club. The Angels - friends, families, and businesses from near and distant locales -returned to continue supporting the fund dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by debilitating illnesses.
Alyssa’s Angels Foundation is a non-profit organization raising money to help children and individuals with disabilities. Working with them and their families, its mission is to help bring them a happier, healthier life.
The group was established in honor of 7-year-old Alyssa Cantaffa, who lives in West Long Branch and was afflicted with mental and physical handicaps after her battle at age three weeks with pertussis (whooping cough) that almost took her life.
The Foundtion has broadened its original purpose to include all children, their families and individuals suffering from disabling illness. A new dimension for support has now surfaced. Recently the Foundation announced it is pursuing funds for Conway Park in West Long Branch. The borough is planning improvements at the park, including special playground equipment for disadvantaged youngsters, as well as for use by all children.
There were 340 attendees on Friday, Jan. 27, up from the first event a year ago. This year’s raffles raised $64,000 from the sale of the many gifts donated. Among the prizes was a week at Disney world with “hoppers,” and a $500 cash prize. The list of prizes numbered close to one hundred, including golf greens fees, dinners at restaurants, a fully outrigged computer system, shopping sprees and more.
Alyssa’s parents, Tony and Casey Cantaffa, said, “We are grateful and appreciative for the overwhelming response to the Night of Angels. So many people have come to help the Foundation. So many, and so much love.