On Saturday, the 10th edition of the Gifts of Love and Hope Benefit will take place at Bart’s Cove in Dunkirk. Richard Kozlowski Jr. founded the event after watching his dad pass away from cancer, and was set on helping children suffering a similar fate.

“Although my father lived long past his childhood, I am determined to do what I can to help children battling this terrible disease,” said Kozlowski.

Gifts of Love and Hope is committed to giving Christmas presents to as many children of Courage of Carly as possible, which exists at Roswell Park Cancer Institute to offer support programs to children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer and their families as well.

Though the event has run the last couple years during the pandemic, Kozlowski said the money raised has not nearly been at the level it was pre-pandemic. This year though, Kozlowski expects it to be back to its former glory. There are already 183 prizes on hand, and Kozlowski is trying to get the whole family involved.

“It’s looking like we’re going to make up for it this year,” said Kozlowski. “I’m trying to make it very family friendly. We have a face painter, super heroes, and free small toys like match box cars.

We also have free raffles for children, if they come in with an adult they’ll get seven tickets. There are 14 prizes for that. We’re trying to attract families.”

There will be much to do and experience on that Saturday. Furious George will be playing music from 1 to 4p.m. America’s Got Talent star Ashley Marina will be performing from 4 p.m. to 4:45, followed by Osborn/Nash and Passion Works for three hours each, lasting until 10:45.

Face painting will be from 3 to 7 p.m. and Superheroes from Justice League of WNY will be there during the same time, along with a balloon character maker. Duper’s Food Truck and Whiz Whip Food Truck will each be there beginning at 1 p.m.

Raffle prizes are highlighted by a Cuisinart Wood Pallet/Propane Grill with four patio chairs and a fire pit, all donated by Walmart. Tickets for this are $10, three for $20, or 10 for $50. There will also be a Jim Kelly autographed jersey and football as separate raffles, a Rob Ray autographed hat and sweat top and a Jeff Skinner autographed jersey, along with many other prizes available.

The Gifts of Love and Hope Benefit will be held on Saturday, August 20 on Woodrow Avenue in Dunkirk from noon until 10:30 p.m.