UPDATE: The Play Ball Drive is racing against time to collect 2,500 new sports balls for children in Boys & Girls Clubs, with a critical deadline of December 28. The campaign is just $10,000 away from unlocking a matching donation from an anonymous donor, who has pledged $10,000 if the community can match it.
“The clock is ticking, and we’re so close to our goal,” said Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach. “We are grateful for the community support so far, but we need just a little more to reach our target.” The urgency of this campaign cannot be overstated as it is vital for keeping local youth engaged in sports and off the streets.
So far, the drive has successfully collected 2,047 balls in Long Beach and over 1,500 balls in the Daily Breeze area. This year’s goal is to provide at least 5,000 sports balls total, split between the Long Beach and L.A. Harbor organizations. The latest figures highlight the community’s commitment, but with just weeks left, every contribution is crucial.
The annual Let’s Play Drive is jointly sponsored by the Press-Telegram and Daily Breeze, along with their affiliated publications. The campaign encourages donations of various sports balls, including basketballs, footballs, and soccer balls, all of which are essential for fostering teamwork and promoting health among children.
To incentivize community support, Big 5 Sporting Goods is offering a 25% discount on regular-priced sports balls purchased for the drive at select locations in Long Beach and South Bay, excluding golf and tennis balls. Rodriguez emphasized the importance of these donations, stating, “Every ball donated helps our kids and makes a real difference in their day.”
Donors can contribute by dropping off sports balls at designated locations or via online purchases. Key drop-off points in Long Beach include the main office of the Boys & Girls Clubs located at 3635 Long Beach Blvd. and various Big 5 locations. For those wishing to donate online, visit bgclublb.org/Joy.
As the holiday season approaches, Rodriguez expressed gratitude for all contributions, stating, “We wish everyone a warm and happy season. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of so many kids.”
The community is urged to act quickly. With just days remaining, the success of this campaign hinges on immediate action from local residents. For any inquiries or additional drop-off locations, contact Kari Cho, Vice President of Marketing and Development, at [email protected].
Join the fight to ensure every child has the opportunity to play. Together, we can reach this goal and provide essential resources for countless kids in our community.
