#USA #pediatric cancer #New Orleans #Family Support #Hogs for the Cause

Hogs for the Cause Surpasses $15 Million Milestone

In recognition of National Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, Hogs for the Cause is proud to announce a significant achievement in its mission to support families dealing with the challenges of pediatric cancer. Since its inception in 2009, this 501(c)(3) organization has successfully raised and distributed over $15 million in direct grants and strategic investments in hospitals nationwide.

Direct Grants to Families

The cornerstone of Hogs for the Cause's efforts lies in its commitment to families. To date, the organization has awarded $2.9 million in direct financial support to more than 2,200 families. These grants are designed to alleviate the financial burden associated with medical expenses, travel costs, and loss of income due to caretaking roles. Becker Hall, co-founder and CEO of Hogs for the Cause, shared, "Supporting families has always been at the heart of Hogs. What started as a grassroots effort has evolved into a nationwide movement driven by compassion and community."

Hogs Houses: A Safe Haven for Families

Another vital initiative by Hogs for the Cause is the establishment of Hogs Houses, which provide free, family-centered housing adjacent to children’s hospitals. In 2018, the first Hogs House was built at Children’s Hospital New Orleans with a $2.55 million investment. A second facility opened in 2024 at Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital in Baton Rouge, which was constructed with a $2.3 million donation. Not resting on its laurels, Hogs for the Cause has pledged $1 million for renovations to the housing at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in Florida, marking its first expansion outside of Louisiana. These houses allow parents to stay close to their children during critical treatment periods. Rene Louapre, co-founder and COO, noted, "Thanks to the hard work and generosity of our supporters, we will continue to positively impact thousands of families each year."

Investing in Pediatric Oncology Infrastructure

In addition to supporting families directly, Hogs for the Cause has turned its attention towards enhancing pediatric oncology care by investing in hospital infrastructure. Recent projects include:

• - $1.5 million to expand inpatient cancer care at Children's of Mississippi
• - $1.1 million to Children's Hospital Colorado for a state-of-the-art central cell bank
• - $1 million for the new Hematology-Oncology Unit at Prisma Health Children's Hospital–Upstate
• - $1 million to renovate over 8,000 square feet of oncology space at East Tennessee Children's Hospital

Additional funding has also been allocated to support facilities like Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, MUSC, and Ochsner Hospital for Children. According to CFO Zandy Rainold, "Every donation is thoughtfully invested to create lasting impact."

Annual Festival to Fuel the Mission

To sustain its efforts, Hogs for the Cause hosts an annual two-day music festival in New Orleans, featuring over 95 barbecue teams and more than 20 bands. This event not only serves as a celebration but also as a vital fundraising tool for the organization's various initiatives.

Hogs for the Cause continues to lead the charge in supporting families through the emotional and financial toll of pediatric cancer, ensuring that no family has to navigate this difficult journey alone. To learn more about their mission, initiatives, and how you can help, visit Hogs for the Cause.