StarKist and Roc Solid Foundation Unite to Enrich Lives of Young Cancer Patients
Bringing Joy to Young Hearts: StarKist and Roc Solid Foundation
On May 9, 2025, in a heartwarming initiative, StarKist Co., the beloved tuna brand in America, joined forces with the Roc Solid Foundation to spread joy to a brave 7-year-old girl named Fallon D'Aguiar from Silver Spring, Maryland. Fallon is currently battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, and this collaboration aimed to uplift her spirits during such challenging times.
The Power of Play
The Roc Solid Foundation, since its inception in 2009, has been dedicated to enriching the lives of children affected by cancer by harnessing the joy of play. This charity has provided hospital Ready Bags to families at the point of diagnosis and created custom playground equipment for children receiving treatment. Eric Newman, the founder and CEO of Roc Solid Foundation, strongly believes, "We believe in the power of play, because when kids are playing, cancer is the last thing on their minds."
For families grappling with the routine of cancer treatments, where traditional play is often not a safe option, having a playset in the backyard can be pivotal. Not only does it provide entertainment, but it also serves as a safe haven for kids to create fond memories away from the specter of treatment and isolation.
A Special Surprise
In a remarkable demonstration of community spirit, volunteer employees from StarKist came together to construct a custom playset in Fallon's yard. After hours of hard work, the moment of unveiling arrived, marked by the charismatic Charlie The Tuna®, StarKist's well-known mascot, revealing the completed playset to Fallon and her family. It was a truly touching moment, referred to as "What Hope Looks Like," transforming an ordinary backyard into a joyful sanctuary filled with laughter and play.
Mike Merritt Jr., StarKist's Head of Marketing, expressed the company's commitment to social responsibility, remarking, "We are thrilled to partner with Roc Solid Foundation to help bring hope and joy to kids fighting childhood cancer. Our team was so honored to create a space where Fallon can just be a kid again, and where cancer isn’t front and center."
StarKist’s Charitable Endeavors
StarKist has long embraced the principle of giving back, striving to make lasting impacts through various charitable initiatives primarily aimed at fighting hunger and uplifting communities. This ongoing collaboration with Roc Solid Foundation is just one facet of StarKist’s broader commitment to societal welfare. Besides supporting children fighting cancer, the company has been actively combating food insecurity for over 15 years, contributing millions of tuna and chicken products across the nation.
StarKist also partners with Feed the Children® for disaster and emergency relief efforts and lends support to Cornerstones, a nonprofit assisting vulnerable families in Northern Virginia. Moreover, they honor the sacrifices of Korean War veterans, reflecting the company’s deep-rooted values of generosity and community support.
About StarKist Co.
StarKist Co. is more than just a leading name in the tuna industry; it is a socially responsible organization dedicated to empowering individuals through nutritious proteins. Known for pioneering single-serve pouch products like StarKist Tuna Creations®, StarKist has demonstrated a commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovative solutions for healthier lifestyles. Since 1961, StarKist has enjoyed a cherished place in the hearts of consumers, all thanks to its beloved mascot, Charlie The Tuna®.
About Roc Solid Foundation
Roc Solid Foundation is committed to building hope for children battling cancer throughout the United States by promoting the significance of play. The organization provides essential resources such as hospital Ready Bags and has empowered thousands of children by installing playsets that offer safe places to play during treatment. Partnering with over 180 children's hospitals, the Roc Solid Foundation continues to fulfill its mission across the nation.
For more information about StarKist Co. and Roc Solid Foundation, their websites provide further insights into their impactful endeavors.