Foundation Programs & EVENTS
Matt's Grab-N-Go
Every month, we host a food drive at Kerry Hall and other select venues and hand out much needed groceries to the families that need it.
The Matthew Wallace
Memorial Tournament
Matthew thrived and participating in all sports. Matthew enjoyed the comradery, sportsmanship and competition. Matthew also appreciated the equality on the field and the fact players were judged by their ability.
ANNUAL Spark the Spirit of Giving
Spark the Spirit of Giving benefited families and children most in need during the holiday season. Over 1,200 wrapped toys were gifted to children .
Halloween Trunk or Treat
The Foundation hosted Halloween Trunk or Treat at the Cross County Center parking lot to great fanfare. Without the opportunity to travel door to door, this outdoor event provided children and families with a safe alternative. Over 1,000 participants received complimentary candy and treats from local businesses, civic groups, and local legislators.
Thanksgiving Grab-n-Go
The Foundation sponsored the Thanksgiving Grab-n-Go at Coyne Park in Yonkers. This outdoors event benefited families, children, Senior Citizens and Veterans most in need during the Thanksgiving holiday. Over 250 turkeys and provision packages were distributed with the volunteerism of the Mount Saint Michael Academy students and Mothers and a very special thank you to Steve Sansone as our Turkey mascot.
BINGO NIGHT FUNDRAISER
The Foundation hosted a Bingo Night Fundraiser at Mount Saint Michael Academy. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our Bingo Night Fundraiser. It was a packed house, thanks to every one of you! These proceeds help us in our annual programming, especially the various food drives, and scholarships we provide. We pick our causes based on what Matt always expressed was very important to him, and continue to work to keep his memory strong.
Diwali Celebration
On November 12th 2023, we were extremely happy to host Yonkers first Diwali Festival to foster cultural understanding and unity in our city’s beautiful tapestry. Last night the light of our city shone bright!
We would like to thank Dr. Ruchi Agarwal, Chandra Sookdeo, and Sandra Marie Casey for helping organize this celebration and Neha Palace Diya for being so generous and kind.
BUTTERFLY RELEASE CEREMONY
The Mothers, a support group for grieving parents who lost their children, in association with The Matthew Wallace Foundations, hosts the Annual Butterfly Release Ceremony at Yonkers City Hall by the Unity Fountain.
COVID-19 Community Relief Efforts
The Foundation host and distributes Grab n’ Go meals to the community and also partners with community-based organizations to supply needed groceries and provisions to those most vulnerable. The Foundation has supplied food items to pantries and phone chargers to local hospitals for quarantined patients. Also, the Foundation has provided meals and snacks to local hospital emergency rooms staff.
Halloween Costume Giveaway
Donating costumes to children who are faced with unique challenges, such as living in poverty, homelessness and living in shelters. Our goal is help children enjoy the parts of their childhood that is often taken for granted.
Comedy for a Cause
You could never be sad around Matthew. He always brought people together through laughter. Comedy For A Cause is our nod to Matthew’s joy and unbelievable sense of humor. Proceeds benefit our outreach.
FOOD BANK FOR NEW YORK CITY
Matthew believed we should be the change we want to see in the world. Board members and Foundation volunteers helped pack food which will feed hungry families in NYC
McLean Avenue Fall Festival
Street Renaming & Memorial Events
In the year 2016, Matthew was immortalized with an Honorary Street Renaming on August 6th, his birthday. The street sign outside Matthew’s home was renamed
Matthew Wallace Way. This is tremendous recognition which celebrates his dedication to his family and friends, humanitarian values, commitment and empathy for others and his service to his community, all accomplished in 17 years.