Playing 4 Hope
HOSPITAL VISITS
The Campaign
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Playing 4 Hope was founded to make a difference in the lives of children who suffer from disability, illness, or disease. We do this by pairing a patient at MU Children's Hospital with an athlete from the University of Missouri.
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At every visit, the child is brought a personalized video message from the athlete they are paired with. The visit from the athlete serves to remind the child of the strength they possess and to encourage them to keep pushing forward through whatever adversity they may be facing. The child and their family also receive a gift basket from our sponsors and wristbands from Playing 4 Hope to match the one the athlete is wearing. The wristband symbolizes a special bond between the two and lets the child know that athlete has dedicated their game, and their fight, to them. We encourage all children to send a video or note back to the athlete (or team) who is playing for them, giving them the extra encouragement to get the job done.
During the football season, we provide all patients, families, and staff on the pediatric floors with the essentials of a tailgate. This includes food, beverages, backyard games, and a watch party to cheer on their paired athlete.
GRADE SCHOOL VISITS
*Every hoodie purchased helps us provide hope to children in need throughout Missouri. 100% of the proceeds go back into the 'Players 4 Hope' campaign which will help fund future school visits and events.
The Campaign
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WHY? Thousands of children in Missouri do not have access to basic necessities such as adequate winter clothing and school supplies. We believe every child should have equal access to these needs and should know that they are not alone. We want to provide such needs while fostering hope, encouragement, and inspiration in our communities’ underserved youth.
HOW? Mizzou athletes are teaming up with Playing 4 Hope to raise funds for this campaign. We will deliver necessities to kids in need at grade schools throughout Missouri. The athletes will also share personal stories of perseverance and working through adversity at school sponsored events. With the massive uptick in adolescent suicide, a major focus of our message is on mental health awareness and anti-bullying.
WHAT? Your donation will go towards purchasing winter clothing, shoes, backpacks, and school supplies for these children.
Please consider donating or supporting the campaign by purchasing a hoodie today.
Partnered Schools
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The Hoodie
Boswell Elementary (Lebanon, MO)
140 students received hoodies and >600 students and faculty received P4H wristbands to help bridge inequality and strengthen bonds
