Dear Bergenfield Community and Beyond,

If there is one thing I know about Bergenfield, it’s that when one of our own needs us, we show up.

Four years ago, so many of you showed up for Calvin Young when he was diagnosed with cancer in 8th grade. Our community surrounded Calvin and his family with love, prayers, and support during an unimaginable time. Thankfully, although Calvin still has some battles ahead, he is doing much better today. Now, I’m asking our community to show up for the person who has spent so many years showing up for everyone else, his incredible mother, Jacquelyn “Jackie” Teel. For the past four years, Jackie has carried more than most people realize. As a single mother, she has stood beside her son through his cancer journey while facing medical and financial challenges of her own. And somehow, through it all, she has continued to give so much of herself to others. Jackie is a mother, teacher, coach, and President of the Junior Football League but her impact goes far beyond those titles. She has touched the lives of countless children in our community. She has coached them, taught them, encouraged them, believed in them, and been there for them when they needed someone in their corner. For so many kids, Jackie has been more than a teacher or coach, she has been a mentor, a supporter, and someone who truly cares. Even during some of the hardest years of her own life, she never stopped showing up for our kids. Now, it’s our turn to show up for her.

Any contribution, big or small, can help ease the financial burden Jackie is facing and allow her to focus on what matters most, her health, her son, and her family. If you are unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser can make a difference. Jackie has spent years lifting up our children and our community. Let’s remind her that the same community she has given so much to is standing behind her now. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for every donation, share, prayer, and act of kindness.

With love and gratitude,

Christine