Softball Fundraiser For Baby With Rare Disease Set for Saturday

While they serve different towns in different counties, the Washington Township and Hackettstown police departments have very similar jobs in trying to protect and serve the community.

Now the two squads are coming together for another common goal, this time to help a local baby with a very rare disease.

This Saturday, June 6 at 3 p.m. on Tannery Field in Hackettstown, the two police departments will square off in a charity softball game to aid the family of Avery Harris, a seven-month-old living with Microvillus Inclusion Disease, a rare intestinal issue.

Harris lives in Independence but has spent much of his young life receiving medical attention in intensive care unit.

The disease, in part, prevents the absorption of nutrients from food during digestion.

Both police departments are looking for local businesses to donate to the cause, and may do so while having their names printed on event-shirts or receiving a banner to be put up in the outfield during the game with sponsor levels between $75 and $500. Businesses may also donate money or prizes for a raffle during the event.

Anyone looking to donate can contact Washington Township Cpl. Brian Bigham by calling 908-876-8318.

Admission to the game is $4 per person or $10 per family, with all proceeds benefitting the Harris family for medical expenses.

Pictured: Avery Harris. Photo Courtesy Washington Township PBA.