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Paramus' Steve Grant Turns Heartache Into Help For Those With Addiction

PARAMUS, N.J. – Steve Grant was a father of two well-rounded young boys until they both died of drug overdoses five years apart. The Paramus native used his tragedy to establish the Chris and Kelly’s HOPE Foundation, which provides financial support to programs that treat teens and young adults who struggle with substance abuse and addiction.

Paramus native Steve Grant established Chris and Kelly's HOPE Foundation after losing his two sons to overdoses.

Paramus native Steve Grant established Chris and Kelly's HOPE Foundation after losing his two sons to overdoses.

Photo Credit: Facebook
Chris and Kelly Grant

Chris and Kelly Grant

Photo Credit: Chris and Kelly's Hope

“I've always helped people, I've always been supportive and I've always been a giver,” said Grant, who launched the non-profit organization that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for programs helping kids combat addiction.

Grant recognized the signs of addiction in his oldest son, Chris, who at 21-years-old was struggling with drug and alcohol abuse. The father sought treatment, which resulted in thousands of dollars of resources including rehab, therapy and private schools. Unfortunately, Chris could not be saved

Five years later addiction claimed the life of his younger son, Kelly. Grant describes Kelly as bright and talented young man. The 24-year-old was playing in a band and attending the College of Charleston in South Carolina when he was found by his father on Dec. 10, 2010.

“I drove down to Charleston to [Kelly’s] apartment that he was renting, I broke down his door and found him dead in his apartment from a heroin overdose” said Grant.

“It’s pretty surreal to watch a couple of body bags leave your house.”

Despite the tragedy of losing his only two children, Grant wanted to give back and do everything in his power to help those who are going through the same torment that Chris and Kelly went through. Chris and Kelly’s HOPE has financed 60 different organizations in 30 states through donations and fundraisers. Grant was named the Volunteer of the Year in South Carolina, where he currently resides.

“I want my legacy to be that I did everything I could to help young adults and adolescents who struggle with addiction and substance abuse.” 

For more information on Chris and Kelly's Hope or to find out how to get help dealing with addiction, check out the organization's website.

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