The Patrice Scherri Matthews Foundation (PSMF) is a national nonprofit organization established on January 25, 2024, in honor of Patrice Scherri Matthews. Based in North Carolina, where Patrice’s mother lives and where the foundation’s founder is based, PSMF was created after Patrice was tragically murdered. She was shot twice in the head while waiting to pick up her young son from her estranged husband. PSMF is committed to continuing Patrice's legacy. Love and kindness remained at the core of her heart. Patrice dedicated herself to empowering, supporting, and educating families and individuals in any community she could reach, helping them cope with trauma and loss caused by murder, domestic violence, accidental death, or illness.
While working in the prison system for over 20 years, Patrice witnessed firsthand the decline and heartbreak of individuals who lost hope and the breakdown of families—often due to a lack of advocacy and adequate services for those with specific needs. She recognized an urgent need for a more humane and compassionate approach, rooted in community listening and support. In response to rising violence and domestic abuse nationwide, PSMF aims to address critical service gaps by providing attentive listening and necessary support. Whether through grief counseling, resource connections, advocacy, or education, the foundation ensures that no family faces grief alone.
PSMF partners with local organizations, including schools, law enforcement, faith-based groups, and government agencies, to create sustainable, trauma-informed support systems. This strategic plan details a phased approach to expanding the foundation nationally while maintaining a strong local presence, beginning with its main programs in North Carolina.
Create a national resilience network by proactively addressing the emotional, financial, and systemic challenges faced by grieving families. Too many parents are burying their children at record numbers. Some parents never recover, and through strategic community partnerships, advocacy, and education, we aim to be the bridge that empowers parents and caregivers. Our goal is to ensure every person has access to a compassionate ear, a chance at life and living, as well as healing, understanding, and hope for their future.
Patrice dedicated her life to practicing listening, raising awareness, driving meaningful change, and promoting healing within various communities by exemplifying what true love and kindness look like. She primarily focused on sharing acts of kindness because she believed they matter most when unexpected. Patrice believed that "Practicing Sharing Matters" is a key to restoring hope for those who might have lost it. Practicing Sharing Matters continues Patrice's legacy by empowering individuals and families affected by grief and trauma through comprehensive resources, advocacy, and compassionate support, regardless of location.
PO.Box 512 Gatesville, NC 27938 252-357-0125 PSMFoundation3@gmail.com
