Matthew Perry’s family says they want to “honor” his “legacy” with a foundation to help others

Matthew PerryO’s family spoke about their goals in launching the Matthew Perry Foundation, in new comments ahead of Giving Tuesday. “It is important for us as a family to honor Matthew’s legacy,” his family said in a statement to PEOPLE on November 27. “The potential that the Matthew Perry Foundation has to help those suffering from this disease is something we are proud to bring to the world.” OH Friends The icon has struggled with addiction for much of his adult life and addressed the topic repeatedly in his 2022 memoir. Friends, lovers and the most terrible thing.

Matthew’s famous stepfather, date line journalist Keith Morrison, took to Twitter (X) on Nov. 27 to also promote the foundation’s mission. “This proposal is not the kind of thing I usually do. But this year is different,” he wrote in the heartfelt tweet. “And tomorrow is Giving Tuesday. Do what you can; he would be grateful to you. https://matthewperryfoundation.org.”

His parents, including Keith, mother Susanna Langfordfather John Bennett Perryand stepmother Debbie BoyleShe initially released a statement regarding Matthew’s tragic death on October 29, just a day after he was found unconscious in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home, aged 54. ,” they said PEOPLE in the statement. “Matteo brought so much joy to the world, as an actor and as a friend. “You all mean a lot to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love.”

The foundation launched on Nov. 3 as “the fulfillment of Matthew’s lifelong commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction,” the mission statement on the official website states. “He will honor his legacy and be guided by his own words and experiences and driven by his passion to make a difference in as many lives as possible.”

Matthew’s touching quote is also included on the site’s home page. “When I die, I don’t want to Friends “Be the first thing mentioned: I want to help others be the first thing mentioned,” the quote reads, alongside a captivating black-and-white portrait of the actor. “And I will live the rest of my life proving it. Addiction is too powerful to overcome alone. But together, one day at a time, we can win.”