Purple Panthers teachers presented a check to Megan and Kole Jusczyk, Malia’s mother and brother, on Nov 26, representing the funds raised during the second annual Purple Panther Charity Movie Night. (Photo Courtesy King Philip Regional School District)
NORFOLK — Principal Michelle J. Kreuzer is pleased to share that the King Philip Middle School (KPMS) seventh-grade Purple Panther Team recently hosted their second annual KPMS Purple Panther Charity Movie Night.
The fundraiser, held on Nov. 11, honored former KPMS Purple Panther Malia Jusczyk, who passed away from neuroblastoma on June 14, 2023. The event raised $1,172 benefiting the For Kids’ Sake Foundation, a nonprofit supporting those affected by pediatric cancer.
The evening included a viewing of “Home Alone” and activities such as a coloring station, bracelet-making station, estimation jars, prizes, personalized tumblers and snacks. Purple Panther teachers provided supplies and organized the event.
Malia’s family established the For Kids’ Sake Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children “crush cancer.” Their mission is to raise awareness and improve the lives of children with pediatric cancer through peer-to-peer fundraising, sponsorships, partnerships and awareness campaigns.
The Purple Panthers teacher team presented a check for $1,172 to the foundation on Nov. 26. The team is led by Whitney Hartwell-Jones and supported by teachers Michele Austin, Pam Hughes-Rogan and Melinda Parker.
“I wish to thank our Purple Panther Team teachers who so generously donated their time and supplies to ensure the fundraiser ran smoothly,” Principal Kreuzer said. “I would also like to thank the community for supporting such an important cause and making this year’s movie night even more impactful than last year. We are grateful to the Jusczyk family for allowing us to honor Malia’s legacy and support the For Kids’ Sake Foundation, and we are proud to continue to spread Malia’s message of kindness throughout our school community.”
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