The annual Tim Bear Foundation Holiday Fundraiser and Raffle will take place in Bantry Bay, Greenpoint Avenue, Long Island City on Saturday 13 December from 8pm.
All proceeds from the event (minimum donation at door $75) will go to the Foundation's work helping disabled youngsters access the beach.
Since 2022, the Tim Bear Foundation has been providing beach wheelchairs to children and young adults. To date, the not-for-profit has distributed five beach wheelchairs to recipients Finley Kirrane, Aiden Riley, Monica Chaffardet, Lauren Richardson, and Anne Carlo. These beach wheelchairs have enabled these families to enjoy a day at the beach without physical barriers.
Tim Bergin, a gentle giant to those who knew him, was the inspiration behind the establishment of the Tim Bear Foundation. While serving as a member of the NYPD, Tim responded to the World Trade Center terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. He participated in the rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero for several months.
Born in Maspeth, New York, as the eldest of seven children, Tim's early life was spent exploring the sandy shores of Rockaway and Long Beach. These experiences ignited his lifelong passion for the ocean and sand. In his later years, Tim's dedication extended to his niece Tina, who has special needs.
Recognizing the challenges his family faced in bringing her to the beach, Tim embarked on a mission to find an accessible solution. Through diligent research, he discovered a beach wheelchair that enabled his niece to experience the ocean’s embrace and the rhythmic sound of the waves.
Regrettably, Tim, aged just 47, passed away on December 20, 2020, due to complications associated with the 9/11 illness.
In tribute to Tim’s legacy, Tim Bear Foundation was established by his colleagues in the NYPD and Emerald Society which he served as president.
