Foundation Will Distribute Care Packages in Jacksonville
The newly established foundation honors a local teenager by supporting residents with essential supplies.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Philanthropy
Natasha Jackson launched the Matthew's Legacy of Light Foundation to support the community in honor of her late son. The organization will distribute 100 care packages on September 26, 2026, to aid local residents.
Why it matters
The foundation serves as a vehicle for gun violence advocacy and youth support, fulfilling the personal wish of the founder to assist those in need. It aims to provide resources that address mental health and long-term mentorship.
The foundation will distribute 100 care packages at its outreach event. This initiative follows the June 2026 founding of the organization, which was established after the death of 18-year-old Matthew Jackson.
The players
Natasha Jackson
She is the founder of the Matthew's Legacy of Light Foundation and the mother of the late Matthew Jackson.
Matthew Jackson
He was an 18-year-old student at Riverside High School whose death inspired the creation of the foundation.
Dawud Burritt
He is the 28-year-old suspect charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder in the 2025 shooting.
The details
The distribution event will take place at 525 North Noonan St. and marks a significant step for the organization in its mission to provide youth support and mental health awareness. The foundation is currently operating through incremental initiatives while planning for a permanent facility.
Timeline
November 22, 2025: Matthew Jackson was killed at a local Burger King.
June 2026: Natasha Jackson founded the organization.
September 26, 2026: Care packages will be distributed at noon.
Market Landscape
The foundation follows a pattern set by community-led organizations that formalize support initiatives in response to the 2025 Blanding Boulevard shooting. This move represents a shift from individual response to institutionalized youth advocacy in the Jacksonville area.
Local residents can access the care packages on September 26, 2026, at the 525 North Noonan St. distribution site. This initiative provides tangible support for those in the area while establishing a new resource for youth advocacy.
The takeaway
The launch of this foundation demonstrates how individuals can turn personal tragedy into a sustainable resource for community support. Residents should monitor future announcements regarding the upcoming youth mentorship facility for long-term engagement opportunities.
What happens next
The foundation is currently in the planning stages for a permanent, dedicated facility to house youth mentorship programs and provide ongoing community resources.
Further reading
For more information on local outreach, visit Jacksonville Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News 4 Jax.
