An outpouring of public support has propelled a GoFundMe campaign for James Van Der Beek’s family past $1.5 million within hours of its launch, following the actor’s death at age 48.
Van Der Beek, best known for his breakout role in “Dawson’s Creek,” died Feb. 11 after a prolonged battle with colorectal cancer. By the next day, a crowdfunding campaign setup by close friends had already exceeded $1 million, far surpassing its original $250,000 target. As donations continued to surge, the fundraising goal was raised to $1.6 million at the time of these publication.
The campaign was created to provide financial stability for his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children amid mounting medical expenses and ongoing household costs.
Van Der Beek and his wife share six children: Olivia, 15; Joshua, 13; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; and Jeremiah, 4.
Organizers detailed the family’s situation in a message posted to the fundraising page.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds,” the message on the GoFundMe reads. “They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.”
The campaign further outlines how the contributions will be allocated. “The money raised will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education,” the page continued. “Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.”
Long before the GoFundMe campaign was launched, the actor had taken steps to manage the financial burden of cancer treatment. Diagnosed in 2023 and publicly disclosing his condition the following year, Van Der Beek partnered with Propstore to auction memorabilia from his career. Items from “Dawson’s Creek” including wardrobe pieces, props, and set materials, were offered to collectors to help offset medical costs.
“I’ve been storing these treasures for years, waiting for the right time to do something with them, and with all of the recent unexpected twists and turns life has presented recently, it’s clear that the time is now,” he told People at the time. “While I have some nostalgia tugging at me as I part with these items, it feels good to be able to offer them through Propstore’s auction to share with those who have supported my work over the years.”
According to reports, He later expanded those efforts by selling jerseys from “Varsity Blues,” directing proceeds toward both his own medical expenses and assistance for other “families walking the same path.”
Find James’ Donation Link Here.
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