"Over $15,000 Raised in Wheelchair-Equipped Van Drive"

(Cranston, Rhode Island)

Nearly 400 people packed the Cranston Portuguese Club to help a young man raise money for a wheelchair-equipped van. 15 year-old Evan Huddon of Warwick, was born with Spina Bifida. He starts high school this year, but his family’s current van has hundreds of thousands of miles on it, and it needs to be replaced. Even also needs the van for frequent trips to Hasbro Children’s Hospital.

To help raise funds, a “Laughing 4 eVan” comedy night was launched to bring in donations. Last Wednesday night the event brought in close to $16,000. The Shriners also made a grant of several thousand dollars, so Evan is close to getting a new van! And there were dozens and dozens of raffle prizes to help raise money, too.

“What an amazing night. We are so overwhelmed with all your generosity and support! God provides,” said Evan’s mom, Julie Huddon of Warwick.

“To all my adult friends if you are looking for a great night of laughter go see Mike Murray, Bill Simas and Derrick Fonseca,” said Evan Huddon, who added, “Thanks everyone!”

The side-splitting jokes were provided by local comedians Mike Murray, Derrick Fonseca, and Bill Simas, Their organization, Funny 4 Funds, puts on comedy shows to raise money for good causes. Gel’s Kitchen of West Warwick – owned by Angelica and Mike Penta – donated a full pasta and meatball dinner for the crowd. Even politicians turned out, including Cranston Mayor Allan Fung, Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian, along with State Rep. Joe Solomon (D-Warwick) and State Rep. Bobby Nardolillo (R-Coventry).

If you could not make the event, but still want to contribute, there is a Go Fund Me page for Evan. Just go to: http://www.gofundme.com/eVANs-ride

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