When Cheshire resident Mary Underwood’s sister-in-law, Carleen, lost her battle to cancer in 2008, she and her family became dedicated to help in the fight and to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.
From that desire, Burgers for a Cause was created. Mary, who is the captain of the “We Are Family” Relay For Life team has partnered with Ted’s Steamed Cheeseburgers to hold the event.
For the past 13 years, Bill Foreman, owner of Ted’s, has embraced the event and contributes a significant portion of the day’s proceeds, in addition to the tips accepted for the day. Five years ago, the fundraising efforts of the event were expanded to include the Alzheimer’s Association.
Dementia impacted Underwood’s family and many of her friend’s families as well. “With the success of the Burgers event, we felt that we were able to support two local charities, both of which are important causes for our family” Underwood said.
“We have known the Underwood family for over 18 years and have seen their desire and dedication to local charities,” said Foreman. “We wanted to support their efforts and join in the fight.”
Each year, the event is held in honor and memory of Carleen Underwood. However, over the past decade, several family members and friends have also been remembered as they faced either cancer or dementia. Others who have been honored are Underwood’s mother, Fran Moynihan; father, Ted Moynihan; State Representative Mary Fritz; Cheshire resident and coach Brian Nugent and local business owner Barry Sutherland.
This year’s event is being held in honor and memory of Fred Bouza. Bouza, a Wallingford resident, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in early 2021 and passed away from pneumonia in October.
Last year was the first year the event was held at Cheshire Craft Brewing. Underwood is happy to share that Cheshire Craft Brewing has agreed once again to host the event in Cheshire. “We saw the support the community provided to this event last year and we were happy to provide the location again.” said Scott DeMeo of CCB. “Some of our employees and many of our customers have been impacted by cancer, dementia or even both. And we are honored to be part of the fight to end these diseases.”
The Ted’s burger truck will be set up at CCB’s Commerce Court location. The date of Burgers for a Cause is Thursday, June 16, from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Proceeds and tips from the food truck will be donated to the two charities.
In addition, sponsorship signs are available for purchase. For more information, email Mary at memorycaremary@gmail.com.