#United States #Los Angeles #fundraising #Starlight Foundation #Hospitalized Kids

Starlight Children's Foundation Debuts 'Stream For Starlight'

In September, the Starlight Children's Foundation officially kicks off the 'Stream For Starlight' fundraising initiative, coinciding with September's Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Sickle Cell Awareness Month. The campaign, which runs from August 29 to September 14, aims to raise $130,000 by partnering with a talented group of Twitch streamers and creators. Together, they are harnessing the power of their gaming communities to raise funds that directly support the foundation’s mission: to deliver comfort, joy, and moments of distraction to children battling serious illnesses.

Children diagnosed with cancer, sickle cell disease, or other critical health issues often experience loneliness due to frequent hospital visits and various medical interventions. The stress and isolation they face can be overwhelming. To combat this, programs such as Starlight Gaming utilize play as a method to alleviate anxiety and cultivate happiness during tough times. According to Aimee Finn, senior director of Individual Giving at Starlight, “Hospitalization can be scary and stressful for kids. That's why Starlight is working to transform the hospital experience by providing young patients with play-based programs that offer them positive distractions and a sense of normalcy.”

The initiative kicks off with an engaging event titled “Press Start,” where the nonprofit will gather its streaming family and partners. The event will feature powerful stories, gameplay with Starlight kids, and the introduction of this year’s 'Stream For Starlight' ambassadors.

This year, Starlight proudly introduces a diverse lineup of stream ambassadors who exemplify the essence of charity streaming. They are dedicated to using their platforms to positively impact the lives of hospitalized children. The ambassadors include:

• - Chrissy Costanza: The lead singer of Against the Current is celebrated for blending music with gaming. She has mobilized her community to raise tens of thousands for Starlight.
• - AshSaidHi: Dubbed the “queen of retro gaming,” Ash creates a nostalgic space reminiscent of Mr. Rogers, catering to adult gamers and has supported Starlight since 2021.
• - DDS618, EclipseRaccoon, IAmNahmu, kaethefae_, KiindaLiinda, kushter, Pix_Stitch, and WildSpice: Each brings their unique gaming styles and communities to help further the mission of Starlight.

Together, these ambassadors will engage their audiences through various entertaining formats, from crafting sessions to exhilarating gaming challenges. The goal of “Stream For Starlight” is to celebrate and showcase the creativity and compassion of the streaming community, while also raising vital funds to sustain Starlight’s programs.

Supporters are encouraged to join the initiative by tuning in to their favorite creators on Twitch and donating to their individual fundraising pages. Starlight Children’s Foundation is recognized as one of the premier charities in the U.S. dedicated to improving the lives of sick children, and they aim to play a crucial role in their overall care and happiness.

For those looking to contribute, visit starlight.org/stream-for-starlight to find out how you can help them achieve their fundraising goal and bring smiles to thousands of children across the country.