Businesses Set Fundraisers for Injured Locals

Fundraisers for two local men who were critically injured in separate recent motor vehicle crashes are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Businesses from Manchester and Toms River will donate a portion of sales to the two Ocean County men. Since their injuries, Cody Samuolis, a 25-year-old who graduated from Manchester Township High School, and Travis Lelievre, 19, of Toms River, have undergone successful surgeries, according to Jeanne Morris of the Style in Action salon. 

Samuolis is a manager at the Toms River Friendly's location and was injured in a motorcycle crash in June.

"Many, many love him," Morris said. 

Lelievre was a passenger in a a single-car crash on Union Lane in Brielle in June. He and the car’s driver, 19 year-old Tyler Kowalski of Manchester, were taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center following the crash, according to Sgt. Mike Mechler of the Brielle Police Department. 

On Tuesday, July 17, stores in the Commonwealth Plaza, 1980 Route 37 West, will host fundraisers, according to a Facebook posting by Morris. From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.,  will donate 100 percent of sales from its $10 hair cuts to the men. Appointments can be made by calling 732-408-9898. 

That same day, Julianna's Joy and  will donate 20 percent of their earnings to the pair. Sweet Melissa's Cupcakes will be in the plaza during the day selling cupcakes and will donate 100 percent of profits.

On Wednesday, July 18, Style in Action will host a Family Fun Night at the Toms River Friendly's from 5 to 8 p.m., during which time 15 percent of sales will go toward Samuolis when patrons present a flyer [see this article's media box for the flyer].