It was a home run for a handful of ladies from The Real Housewives of New Jersey, but they weren’t the only ‘Wives hitting the baseball diamond for a good cause. Dolores Catania, once again, put on her captain’s cap for the sixth annual Battle for Brooklyn Celebrity Softball game in Coney Island’s Maimonides Park.
On August 6, the Bravolebs showed up in droves, with the scheduled roster, including Melissa Gorga, Danielle Cabral, and Rachel Fuda, as well as their Househusbands and kids. However, attendees for the game were in for a pleasant surprise as many other Bravolebs also played in the game, including The Real Housewives of New York City alums Dorinda Medley (who appeared alongside Dolores on Peacock’s The Traitors) and Kelly Killoren Bensimon.
Guerdy Abraira — whose personal battle against breast cancer has been a part of her journey on The Real Housewives of Miami — also came to play.
This charity game has turned into a tradition since the ladies played in its inaugural game to raise money for the Maimonides Breast Center in Brooklyn. This year’s event highlighted the Clear The Shelters campaign, helping to raise funds for two good causes: the Maimonides Breast Center and the Clear The Shelters fund. Last year, some of the ’Wives helped the Maimonides Breast Center raise $100,000, and even inspired some pretty awesome Bravo merch.
Inside Dolores Catania’s work with the Battle for Brooklyn Celebrity Softball game
The star-studded softball charity game has been Dolores’s way of using her platform for good, working with the breast center to support screenings, research, and support.
“I look forward to this event each and every year,” Dolores told the center in 2024. “We are thrilled to raise awareness and funds for the critical work Maimonides does through its Breast Center. I can tell you from first-hand experience: You won’t find a more dedicated group of physicians and staff than at Maimonides, and it’s a privilege to support their work.”
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According to Maimonides, Dolores — a massive supporter of women’s health — was seen at the center, where she documented her mammogram and biopsy. RHONJ’s Margaret Josephs followed suit.
This year, the summer sporting event also hosted NBCUniversal Local’s Clear the Shelters, a nationwide pet adoption agency that provided animals from several shelters to participate in the games. The animals were featured on Jumbotrons and ran bases and were available for rehoming, according to NBC New York.
Rachel Fuda’s daughters, Gianella Jolie, 5, and Giuliana Rose, 3, were just a few to take advantage of some cuddles with the furry friends, as seen in one of Rachel’s Instagram posts.
Melissa Gorga and Bravolebs share moments from Dolores Catania’s event
Social media is filling up with incredible moments from the game, not the least of which includes players in their iconic, customized red jerseys. “Had the best time at the Battle for Brooklyn charity softball game,” Rachel said. “Such a fun day for an incredibly meaningful cause. We always love being part of this event.”
Melissa and Joe Gorga’s daughter, Antonia Gorga, also posted a handful of IG photos, including one with Jennifer Fessler. “Had so much fun at the Battle for Brooklyn charity baseball game!! Thank you to everyone who came to support and loved meeting you all,” Antonia wrote, with Melissa adding in the comments, “Best night.”
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Meanwhile, Dolores’s partner, Paulie Connell, shared photos of a spectacular firework display to top off the night, as reposted onto the Housewife’s Instagram Stories. “Amazing charity, amazing fun, with amazing people,” summed up Paulie. “Thank you to all who supported.”
Check out how Dolores living with Paulie has changed her.
