"Mom, we need to keep Justin's memory alive by doing what Justin always did - give to others," said 20-year-old Clint Davis shortly after his older brother, Justin, died in a car accident in 2009.
Through the efforts of family and friends, "Justin's Smile" was formed to provide financial assistance for funeral and related expenses due to the death of a child. The organization believes that helping with the financial burden of funeral costs can relieve some of the emotional stress that many family members feel.
"The name 'Justin's Smile,' wasn't hard to choose," Tammy Davis, Justin's mom, said. "Justin was always smiling. His laughter and smile were very contagious. He would go out of his way to help others, and he inspired others to do the same." The organization's T-shirts show a smiling sun similar to Justin's ability to light up a room.
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PACFI Secretary Bob Derr presents Tammy Davis with a $1,000 check for Justin’s Smile. Tammy’s son, Justin, died in a car accident in 2009 and friends and family organized Justin’s Smile to help families pay funeral expenses due to the death of a child. Tammy wears a colorful Justin’s Smile T-shirt that depicts her son’s personality.
Pennsylvania Cystic Fibrosis Inc. (PACFI) recently donated $1,000 to Justin's Smile.
"We at PACFI know the trauma of having one of your children die at a young age and being faced with unexpected funeral costs," said Bob Derr, PACFI secretary. "Justin's Smile has already helped some families, and the organization fills a niche that is needed."
Justin's Smile is a nonprofit charity organized solely for families in need. Donations go directly to funeral or related expenses due to the death of a child and a small portion is reserved for fundraising expenses.
To make a donation, call Tammy Davis at 966-0236 or email tdavis@ dejazzd.com.
