New Matthew Perry foundation started to help those struggling with addiction

A brand new foundation has been launched under actor Matthew Perry's name and is now accepting donations to help individuals dealing with addiction.

The actor had plans in the works to launch the foundation before his death, leading the actor’s team to create the foundation themselves. The National Philanthropic Trust will maintain it.

The renowned actor, most well-known for his role on the hit show Friends in the 1990s as Chandler Bing, passed away in his home last week at 54. No official cause of death has been released, but the medical examiner said there was likely no foul play involved.

Perry was open about his experiences with addiction throughout his life and spent much of it advocating for others who were struggling with it, notably opening the rehab centre Perry House in his former mansion in Malibu.

A new foundation has opened up in honor of Matthew Perry. The mission is to help as many people as possible who are struggling with addiction, which is something Matthew set out to do. Matthew helped us in many ways, now it’s our turn to help him. https://t.co/XmPLfJLN7J pic.twitter.com/LLQcn7VeWR

— no context chandler bing (@NoContxtBing) November 3, 2023

A website was launched alongside a press release on Friday, 3rd November, which contains the foundation's mission statement and a button to donate.

"The Matthew Perry Foundation is the realization of Matthew's enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction," read the statement. "It will honor his legacy and be guided by his own words and experiences and driven by his passion for making a difference in as many lives as possible."

The website also contains a quote from Perry that was recently unearthed after his passing, which contained his wishes after he was to die. "When I die, I don't want 'Friends' to be the first thing that's mentioned – I want helping others to be the first thing that's mentioned. And I'm going to live the rest of my life proving that.

"Addiction is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together, one day at a time, we can beat it down."

You can find out more about how to donate on the website HERE.