Matt's Mission 5K teams up to help local family!

North Branford, CT – Over 1,000 runners and walkers are expected to participate in the 7th Annual Matt’s Mission 5K! This year Matt’s Mission Fund and the North Branford Board of Education are teaming up to raise money for the Herassme Family. Donna Herassme, North Branford resident and mother of three, passed away just a week before Mother’s Day. To show the family they are supported by the community we are having a raffle to raise funds at the Matt’s Mission 5K. If you would like to make a donation to the family at the event, you can make checks out to Matt’s Mission Fund and put “Love for Donna” in the notes. If you would like to donate an item to the raffle, items can be dropped off at North Branford School Central Office in Northford or call (203) 484-1440.

The 5K event takes place Sunday, May 22 at North Branford High School. The rolling 5K course passes residential neighborhoods, farmlands and fields. Matt’s Mission 5K is in honor of Matt Picciuto, who died in a car accident on May 23, 2009.

Year after year, the North Branford community has come together to make the Matt’s Mission 5K a success. Last year, nearly $50,000 was raised for the Matt’s Mission Fund. “In today’s economy, many families cannot afford basic necessities that students need to prosper at school," states Scott Schoonmaker, North Branford Superintendent. "At this time there is an urgent need within North Branford school system. Each runner, walker and sponsor can make a big difference in a student’s life.”

The race is a Bob Marley themed event! Runners & walkers are encouraged to wear tye-dye and rasta-inspired attire for the 5K! All participants receive tech tees and are invited to the post-race party. The party features delicious food and beverages from local restaurants including Joey Cal’s Deli & Catering, Chabaso Bakery, Gold Medal Bakery, Pastry Fusions & more! The post-race party also features live music and an awards ceremony.

JB Sports LLC, coordinator of the Faxon Law New Haven Road Race and Branford Road Race, coordinates the event with Lynn Riordan. Participants can register now at www.jbsports.com or call (203) 481-5933 for information.

The race is supported by major contributions from Lisa & Gene Goodmaster, Yale-New Haven Shoreline Medical Center, Country Paint and Hardware, AGWAY, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, North Branford Police Union, Buckley & Wynne, Phil’s Driving School, Precision Computer Services, Walt’s Auto Body, Mansir Printing, LLC, 99.1PLR, Totoket Times, North Branford Fire Department and Stop & Shop. To learn more about the event, visit www.jbsports.com.