Los Angeles, Apr 19 (IANS): Hollywood actress Jennifer Lawrence will April 26 receive the Friendship Award from NGO Down Syndrome of Louisville.

The "Silver Linings Playbook" actress will be lauded for her friendship with childhood friend Andy Strunk, a Louisville local. He has Down Syndrome, a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome 21. She has known him since middle school, reports contactmusic.com

"Lawrence and Strunk have been friends since their middle school days. They enjoy a loyal friendship of mutual encouragement and enjoy each other's company. They text and speak on the phone quite frequently. Their families stay in close contact and continue a friendship too," said a source from the NGO.

"Our members and staff of Down Syndrome of Louisville are so very proud of Lawrence for staying true to her Louisville hometown roots while she achieves global recognition for her craft as an artist. We are thrilled that Strunk will present the Friendship Award to her family," the source added.

Lawrence won't be able to attend the ceremony at the Mint Jubilee Gala as she is currently filming in Hawaii, but her brother Blaine and his fiancee will accept the award on her behalf.