Ludlow foundation battles drug abuse

LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) - A Western Massachusetts organization held a fundraiser tonight to help those who battle the disease of drug addiction.

Hundreds gathered at the Ludlow Polish Club to raise money for the Michael J. Dias Foundation.

Michael loss his life to drugs and as result, three sisters banded together and created this foundation in hopes of making a difference.

The mission of the foundation is to aid and educate people about substance abuse.

“I think it's somewhat hidden problem people don't realize. We want to bring this out to the open, to the light so everyone can realize it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It's nothing to hide,” Diane Rinehart.

“We need to make those parents aware and a lot of them need to face the problem. If we can save one child, it's a good beginning,” Maria Salvador

The Foundation consists of volunteers committed to helping individuals and families support the goal of drug free communities.

If you would like more information on the Michael J. Dias Foundation, you can visit michaeldiasfoundation.org