Red Sox pitcher Jake Diekman and wife Amanda launch 5th annual “Christmas in July” fundraiser
BOSTON, MA- The Red Sox today announced the 5th annual “Christmas in July” fundraiser begins today and will run through Sunday, July 10. This year’s program is being organized by Red Sox pitcher Jake Diekman and his wife Amanda to help raise funds that will allow Child Life specialists to purchase new toys and craft items for pediatric patients being treated at Boston Children’s Hospital. Jake and Amanda will also welcome 5-year old Georgia, a patient at Boston Children’s Hospital, to participate in an interview with NESN to kick off the fundraiser prior to today’s Red Sox- Tampa Bay Rays 1:35 p.m. game.
The first 10 individuals to make a $1,000 donation will receive a signed item by a Red Sox player, and the first 5 individuals to donate $5,000 will receive two passes to batting practice. Red Sox wives and families will have tables set up at the park throughout the upcoming homestand to collect monetary donations. Donations can also be made online by visiting here.
Donations are used in the following ways:
- $50: 16 packs of Play-Doh for patients to squish when feeling nervous.
- $100: 5 medical play kits to help patients learn about and better understand their hospital experience.
- $250: 25 Lego sets to encourage kids to think beyond the four walls of the hospital room and build something new.
- $500: One month’s worth of treasure box items for a unit, encouraging a smile after a difficult treatment or procedure.
- $1,000: 20 birthday parties for patients or their siblings who will spend their special day in the hospital.
- $5,000: Restock a playroom or purchase tech items like iPads, offering distraction and learning opportunities during procedures or long stays.
Christmas in July began in 2018 when former Red Sox first baseman Mitch Moreland and his wife Susannah organized a toy collection at Fenway Park for the Boston Children’s Hospital playroom. This year, the tradition is being carried on by Jake Diekman and his wife Amanda.