Naya Rivera's 'Glee' co-stars launch fundraiser in her memory

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Naya Rivera’s friends and family are honoring the late actress this holiday season in a special way.

Rivera’s Glee co-stars have launched a GoFundMe account in her name to raise money for Alexandria House, a non-profit she was involved in before her death. The actress accidentally drowned during a swimming excursion with her 5-year-old son, Josey, on July 8.

“If you were lucky enough to know Naya, you know she threw some epic parties. The best of them all was her annual Christmas party, which she dubbed Snixxmas. Snixxmas was like Naya herself… sparkling, fabulous and one hell of a good time! But it wasn’t only glitz, glamour and gay apparel. Every holiday season, Naya found ways to give back,” reads the GoFundMe page.

Naya Rivera's friends and family launch fundraiser in her name.
Here's the special way Naya Rivera's friends and family are honoring her this holiday season. (Photo: Getty Images)

Rivera donated both money and time to Alexandria House, which provides safe and supportive housing for women and children in the process of moving from emergency shelter to economic stability and permanent housing. The actress spoke about the connection she feels to the organization prior to her passing.

“The connection I feel with [Alexandria House] and the people who reside and work there has been the biggest blessing and made such a huge positive impact on myself and my son. We truly have found a home away from home through the time we spend volunteering there,” she shared.

According to the GoFundMe page, one of the Alexandria House residences caught fire this year.

“This has been a hard year for so many, including the women and children of Alexandria House. They have not only encountered the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, but have also suffered a major loss when one of their two residences caught fire, displacing families and damaging the property,” the page states.

“Now more than ever it’s important that we keep the Snixxmas Spirit alive. We won’t be able to throw a big, fabulous party this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t give back,” it continues. “We will be making a donation in Naya’s name to Alexandria House. And we have started this GoFundme so that you can contribute too. Let’s make charity a cornerstone of the Snixxmas Legacy.”

A statement from Rivera’s family was also included.

“We are forever grateful to Naya‘s friends and colleagues for having the desire to put such a beautiful fundraiser together. Everyone will always be remembered and loved by her entire family. Naya loved Christmas and we are pleased to know that her Christmas parties left a lasting impression on all of our lives,” it reads. “This fundraiser is an extension of Naya’s love for families, children, and holidays. To honor her in this manner is evidence that her love for others is endlessly alive. On behalf of Naya and her son Josey, the family would like to donate items from her Jojo & Izzy clothing line. We appreciate all who continue to shine Naya’s love and light.”

The fundraiser has raised $30,000 (and counting) as of Friday afternoon.

Jenna Ushkowitz, Kevin McHale, Jane Lynch and Chris Colfer are among the Glee stars promoting the fundraiser.

Alexandria House thanked Rivera’s friends and family for the gesture.

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