Press Release from North Branford Public Schools

North Branford Public Schools (NBPS) recently participated in a K-12 awareness campaign and fundraising through school-based “Hats for Hope” efforts to support the Tommy Fund. Since 1953, The Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer has supported families whose children are undergoing cancer treatments at Smilow Cancer Hospital, Yale-New Haven, and its affiliates. On average, the organization provides $10,000 per month for families dealing with the hardships associated with childhood cancer.

The NBPS became affiliated with this organization when one of its own, Nicolas Salvati, was battling childhood cancer over three years ago. Although the battle he faced was not easy, and it has had its ups and downs even now, Salvati has never wavered in his support for the organization that helped him so much when he was at Smilow.

Since then, Salvati has spread the message to his schools, community, and beyond to raise awareness and financial support for the Tommy Fund, doing so through his leadership in Student Council, his networking and leadership throughout the schools, and his personal campaigns on social media. Now a freshman at North Branford High School, Salvati began this effort as a North Branford Intermediate School student.

Thanks to Salvati and his efforts, NBPS raised just under $2,000 this year for the Tommy Fund and, over the past three years, he has helped raise $7,000 for the organization.

Thank you to Nicolas Salvati for your leadership, advocacy, and service, and thank you to the students and families of North Branford for continuing to support this great cause and help those children and families in their darkest days. Your generosity and care go a long way in lifting spirits and supporting treatment. He and our school community truly continue to show that “T-bird” spirit of service to others and caring for those in need.