Long Branch, NJ – Some 120 Bridge enthusiasts turned out in style to compete for prizes and points while benefiting a worthy cause at the Sixth Annual Benefit Bridge Luncheon, Wednesday, September 7 at the Rumson Country Club in Rumson. Sponsored by the Navarumsunk Auxiliary of Family & Children’s Service (FCS), the annual event featured some of the area’s premier Duplicate bridge players and raised more than six thousand dollars to fund critical FCS programs and services, including child literacy, homelessness prevention, and home care.

(l-r) Linda Mitchell, Janice Kane, Ann Kelsey and Enid Billerbeck play Party Bridge at Sixth Annual Benefit Bridge Luncheon for Family & Children's Service

“Bridge is a very popular game today, especially Duplicate Bridge,” says FCS Board member and Auxiliary member B.J. Thompson, who helped organize this year’s event. “This is a great way to get people together and raise money at the same time.”

Following a light buffet lunch, players settled down for three hours of mostly silent Duplicate Bridge, competing for prizes, and in some cases, Master Points. Several tables were also set aside for non-competitive Party Bridge, for those guests who preferred a casual, talkative atmosphere.

Founded in 1957, the Navarumsunk Auxiliary adopted its name from the Native American tribe that inhabited the Rumson- Fair Haven peninsula.  Their premiere fundraising event, a small poolside Summer Fashion Show, eventually evolved into the much anticipated annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show. Together with the Bridge Tournament, the group raises thousands for FCS programs and services each year.

 “Much as bridge players depend on others at the table, we are grateful to have the Navarumsunk Auxiliary on our team,” says FCS President and CEO, Vincent D’Elia. “Their continuing support of the agency has directly benefited untold numbers of individuals and families in need.”

The auxiliary is always looking for new members.  For more information about joining, or to learn about others ways you can support FCS, contact Diane Gribbin at 732-222-9111 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..