Community Rallies for “Best Pizza” Fundraiser Supporting Local Residents in Crisis
This Saturday, the fragrant aroma of melted cheese and savory sauce will fill the air at Happy Eatery for a cause that goes far beyond local flavor. On February 21, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, People in Crisis Inc. (PICI) will host a Pizza Tasting Contest to raise urgent funds for two Cape May County neighbors, John Scalella and Edgar Neel.
Located at 715 East 8th Street, the event invites residents of all ages to vote for the best pizza in Cape May and Atlantic County. For a modest $5 entry fee, guests can enjoy a variety of slices from renowned local donors, including Ventura’s Offshore Café, Mama Mia’s Ristorante, Mario’s Pizzeria & Restaurant, Little Italy, Michelli’s Pizza, and Eddie’s Pizza and Grill. The afternoon also features fruit refreshers, Johnson’s Popcorn, movie watching, and card and board games, with free prizes available for children.
A Mission to Close the Gaps
People in Crisis Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advocating for individuals facing severe hardships who often “fall through the cracks” of the healthcare system. For PICI co-president Lana Samuels, the mission is personal; John Scalella, one of the fundraiser’s beneficiaries, saved her life years ago by providing compassionate advocacy and resources following a major accident.
Now, the roles have reversed. John is in the midst of a severe dental crisis following multiple facial assaults. The trauma resulted in the loss of his jawbone, meaning standard dentures and implants are no longer viable. To speak, eat, and swallow effectively, John requires Zygomatic Implants, which anchor to the cheekbone. The goal for John’s medical needs is $35,000.
Supporting a Vietnam Veteran
The second beneficiary, Edgar Neel, is a Vietnam veteran whom PICI has supported for 14 years. Despite his service, Mr. Neel previously struggled to afford life-saving heart medication and lived in a home with failing infrastructure. While PICI has already facilitated massive improvements to his home—including a new roof, siding, and septic system—one critical need remains: security.
Due to frequent trespassers on his lawn at all hours, Mr. Neel suffers from significant stress that negatively impacts his heart and lung health. The fundraiser aims to secure $4,000 to complete a protective fence around his property. Of the total $5,000 cost, $1,000 has already been raised.
How to Get Involved
Organizers emphasize that community participation is the key to reaching the $39,000 total goal. Beyond the pizza contest, PICI is selling discount tickets to local businesses to accelerate their fundraising efforts.
“We need all the help we can get, and spreading the word can make a huge difference,” the organization shared.
For more information, supporters are encouraged to contact PICI17@YAHOO.COM. For those unable to attend the event at Happy Eatery, donations are being accepted through a dedicated GoFundMe, and the PICI website.
