A COPE Foundation 19 drug and addiction awareness event is planned for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Walmart.

COPE Foundation 19 stands for “Children of Opioid Parents and Empowerment.” It was was created when founder Bill Matteson lost his son, Justin (Jay) Matteson, Jan. 5, 2019. “I saw his children alone without a dad which is what brought me to this mission,” he said. “My son did not die in vain. His legacy and inspiration serve as acknowledgement that hope is here. Change is present. Justin’s death has made me a stronger man. More resilient to assist in children’s futures.”

Cope Foundation 19 is a children’s non-profit. It serves children from age 3 to high school who have lost a parent to either death, abandonment or imprisonment.

“We helped them to have more resilient purposeful lives in the future where they do not have to live as their loved ones have lived,” Matteson said. “Our program provides professional trauma counseling to each child, we then provide them with the opportunity to participate in an activity of their choice to help them feel more confident and find new friends and be around a more positive atmosphere. We host several monthly and annual events with the children and their families. Being actively surrounded by individuals like them is acceptance necessary to succeed in life. After the one-year enrollment, we assess the development and achievements of each child.

“If you or anyone you know could use our services, please go to our website at www.copefoundation19.com or call 716-281-3636.

“If you would like to sponsor a child, there’s a donation link on the website. We are always looking for volunteers to help serve these children.”