- About Us
Grief is often accompanied by urgent decisions and unexpected expenses
Parents may need to choose a funeral home, arrange a burial or cremation and plan a service while trying to understand how they will pay for it. Some are already managing medical bills, reduced income or other financial pressures connected with their child’s care.
Angels for Allison helps qualified Northeast Florida families cover funeral expenses after the death of a child between 20 weeks of gestation and 18 years of age. Your support gives families greater choice during an experience that can otherwise leave them feeling powerless.
More than 1,500 families
supported since we began
Over $1.5 million
provided toward funeral expenses
About 200 families
helped each and every year
- Remembering Allison
The joyful spirit behind our name
Angels for Allison was created in memory of Allison Brundick Haramis, a joyful, colorful and deeply loved 15-year-old who died on April 17, 2009. She especially loved the colors pink and green, which remain part of the Foundation’s identity and bring warmth and hope to work that exists for a profoundly sad reason.
The Foundation does not exist only because Allison died. It exists because she lived, because she was loved, and because her joyous spirit continues to inspire people to care for others.
- How the Foundation Began
From seven families to a Foundation that spans Northeast Florida
What began in 2010 through a small, committed community has grown into a Foundation that reaches families across seven Northeast Florida counties.
2010
2011
Today
Growth is not measured only by numbers
We are proud of how far the Foundation has come, but the real measure of our work is found in the families behind every grant.
The family that was able to choose a meaningful service for their child.
The parent who did not have to choose between a funeral and a medical bill.
Every message from a family who felt supported in their darkest period.
- What We Believe
Guided by compassion, dignity, responsibility and remembrance
Four beliefs shape every decision we make and every family we serve.
Every child deserves to be honored
A family’s financial circumstances should not decide whether they can create a meaningful farewell for their child.
Every family deserves respect
Grief is personal. Families come from different backgrounds, beliefs and circumstances, and each deserves sensitivity and no judgment.
Every donation must be used responsibly
Referrals are assessed by trusted partners and reviewed by our mission committee. Approved funds are paid directly to funeral homes, never as cash.
Every Angel deserves to be remembered
The children whose families we support are known as our Angels. We say their names during board meetings, keeping every child at the center of our work.
Visit Our Families to learn more about our Angelgram program, annual memorial service, private family community and opportunities for Angel families to remain connected.
- Our Leadership
Guided by a dedicated team and board
Three team members manage the Foundation’s daily work, from referrals and funeral home coordination to family communication, events and partnerships. A 14-member board provides strategic direction, financial oversight and mission accountability.
Anne Marie Van Wie
Executive Director
Diane Madison
Office Manager
Jessie Drew Hawkins
Social Media & Marketing
- Continued Support for Angel Families
Our relationship does not end after funeral assistance
We continue to walk alongside Angel families long after their immediate loss, offering connection, remembrance and community.
The Angelgram Program
We continue reaching out to families after their immediate loss, so no one feels forgotten.
Annual Memorial Service
Families are invited to remember their children together, in a supportive community that understands.
Private Facebook community
A place to stay connected, receive updates and engage with others who understand child loss.
They covered our baby's funeral and that heavy burden was lifted. It was such a blessing in such a dark time.
— An Angel family
Families can update their contact details, find upcoming gatherings and access the private community through our Angel Family page. We share stories carefully, protecting names and details whenever privacy is requested.
- Looking Ahead
For 16 years, we have never turned away a qualified family
Our goal is to remain available for every qualified family referred to us, and to build toward a future where that promise is secure. Here is where we are headed.
Stay ready for every family
Remain available for every qualified family referred to us, without exception.
Build an endowment
Fund funeral assistance for future generations and provide long-term stability.
Invest in the next generation
Create student leadership and philanthropic opportunities that carry the mission forward.
Strengthen our community
Build local business relationships and introduce more of Jacksonville and the Beaches to our work.