UPDATE: The countdown is on for the Let’s Play Ball Drive, which is just days away from its December 28 deadline. The campaign is on the brink of reaching its ambitious goal of providing 2,500 new sports balls to children at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach and the L.A. Harbor, but it needs your help NOW!
Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, expressed optimism, stating, “We’re very close to reaching our goal and unlocking the magic gift from our angel donor.” This anonymous benefactor has pledged $10,000 but requires the community to match that amount, creating an urgent need for an additional $10,000 in donations. If achieved, the total contribution would reach an impressive $20,000.
As of now, the campaign has successfully collected 2,047 balls in Long Beach and over 1,500 balls in the Daily Breeze area. The annual drive, supported by the Press-Telegram, Daily Breeze, Grunion Gazette, and The Beach Reporter, aims to distribute at least 5,000 balls combined to both organizations.
“We appreciate all the help we’ve received so far,” Rodriguez added. “We are almost there.” The call to action is clear: donors are encouraged to contribute sports balls or funds to help make a tangible impact in the lives of local children, especially as the holiday season approaches.
Parents and guardians know the benefits of sports; they foster teamwork and keep kids engaged in healthy activities. To facilitate donations, Big 5 Sporting Goods is offering a 25% discount on all regularly priced sports balls (excluding golf and tennis balls) purchased for the drive at select locations in Long Beach and the South Bay.
Donors can contribute in two ways: by dropping off new sports balls at designated locations or making online donations. Rodriguez emphasized, “Every donation helps our kids and makes a real difference in their day.”
Here’s how you can help:
– **Long Beach Donations**:
– Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, 3635 Long Beach Blvd., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday-Friday)
– Big 5 Sporting Goods locations: 4780 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; 5247 Lakewood Blvd., Lakewood
– Phil Trani’s Restaurant, 3490 Long Beach Blvd.
– Boathouse on the Bay Restaurant, 190 Marina Drive, Long Beach
– Other local businesses and First Bank locations
– **South Bay Donations**:
– Boys & Girls Clubs of L.A. Harbor locations: 1200 S. Cabrillo Ave., San Pedro; 100 W. Fifth St., Port of LA, among others
– Big 5 Sporting Goods locations in Torrance and El Segundo
For those wishing to donate online, visit bgclublb.org/Joy to access the Amazon wish list.
ACT NOW! The need is urgent, and every contribution counts. Whether you drop off a ball or make a financial donation, your support will bring joy and opportunity to countless children this holiday season.
For more information or to become a drop-off location, contact Kari Cho at [email protected] or call local Boys & Girls Clubs offices. Together, we can ensure that all kids have the chance to play ball!
