New charity called the Matthew Perry Foundation launches to help people struggling with addiction

As countless people around the globe continue to mourn the loss of actor Matthew Perry, a new charity has been established in his name with the goal of helping those struggling with addiction. The Friends star was 54 at the time of his passing, and the cause of death has not been determined yet at the time of this writing.

As reported by Us Weekly, the new organization is called the Matthew Perry Foundation, and as of Friday, Nov. 3, it’s up and running and taking donations. The foundation’s website, which you can find here, displays quotes from the late actor about what he wanted to be known for, which was helping others instead of fame. The site also shares the foundation’s mission:

"The Matthew Perry Foundation is the realization of Matthew’s enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction. It will honor his legacy and be guided by his own words and experiences and driven by his passion for making a difference in as many lives as possible."

Given this is a brand-new foundation, limited information is known about it, though the site ensures it is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity, and multiple reputable sources are reporting on it, signaling that it’s legitimate. The money donated will be accepted by the National Philanthropic Trust (NPT), though it doesn’t look like there is information available regarding where it goes after. We’ll be sure to update this post once we’re able to gather more details.

As fans of the late actor know, Perry was very open about his struggles with substance abuse and addiction, opening up more than ever in his 2022 memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing (which is topping the charts on Amazon again) in which he detailed some of the biggest moments of his life. He was very clear on wanting to help others who might be going through the same issues he faced, and I’m sure his book has inspired many fans.

Learn more about the Matthew Perry Foundation and donate here.

Perry was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home on Saturday, Oct. 28, and it was reported he had passed before emergency responders arrived. In the days since his untimely death, his loved ones are speaking out on their last conversations with the actor, along with sharing the fond memories they have of him.

We hope Perry’s legacy will live on with the Matthew Perry Foundation, as well as his beloved shows and movies.