UPDATE: Time is running out for the annual Let’s Play Ball Drive, with only days left to reach the goal of 2,500 new sports balls for children at the Boys & Girls Clubs. The campaign, which has collected 2,047 balls so far in Long Beach and over 1,500 balls in the Daily Breeze area, is set to close on December 28.
“We’re very close to reaching our goal and unlocking a $10,000 gift from our angel donor,” said Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach. The anonymous donor has pledged $10,000, contingent upon matching donations from the community. That means your contributions can double the impact to $20,000.
With the holiday season approaching, the urgency is palpable. “Every donation helps our kids and makes a real difference in their day,” Rodriguez emphasized. The campaign, supported by the Press-Telegram, Daily Breeze, and their sister publications, aims to provide essential sports equipment that fosters teamwork and keeps children engaged in positive activities.
The Let’s Play Ball Drive has extended its deadline to ensure all contributions count. The initiative is vital; sports balls—whether basketballs, soccer balls, or footballs—are crucial for promoting physical health and social skills among youth.
To encourage participation, Big 5 Sporting Goods is offering a 25% discount on any regularly priced sports balls (excluding golf and tennis balls) bought for donation at select locations in Long Beach and the South Bay.
You can contribute in two ways: drop off new sports balls at designated locations or make monetary donations online. Key drop-off sites include the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach office at 3635 Long Beach Blvd, local Big 5 stores, and various community restaurants.
Rodriguez expresses gratitude for the community’s support thus far but stresses that the campaign needs just a little more help to reach its target. “We appreciate all the help we’ve received so far,” he said. “We are almost there.”
As the clock ticks down, every moment counts. Donors are encouraged to act quickly to ensure that children receive the sports balls they deserve. For more information on how to donate, visit bgclublb.org/Joy or contact Kari Cho at [email protected].
In this season of giving, let’s rally together to provide these kids with the opportunities they need to thrive. The future of countless children is at stake, and your contribution can make all the difference. Don’t wait—let’s make this happen!
