Mashpee family to raise money for children with autism

Aug. 27--MASHPEE -- A family in Mashpee will walk 100 miles across the Cape to raise money for the New England Center for Children.

Michael McKenna and his youngest son, Matt, will walk the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail four times to raise money in honor of McKenna's other son, also named Michael, who is autistic and attends the center.

The family started the charity as a golf tournament 12 years ago when Michael was 6. Because of COVID-19, they decided to do a walk this year instead.

The Mike Walk will take place Aug. 27-30.

McKenna said the charity's main sponsors have continued to support them in the new fundraiser, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Rockland Trust and Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare.

In past years the family raised about $100,000, but this year the goal is $50,000. Even with less revenue generated, the net donation should be equal to previous years in which they had to pay expenses related to the tournament, McKenna said.

Through the years the family has raised more than $1 million for children with autism, McKenna said.

Donations may be made at bidpal.net/themike.

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