Holiday Cheer and Empowerment: Celebrities Team Up to Bring Joy to LA Children
The infectious sound of Christmas music filled the air at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, transforming the field into a winter wonderland. Instead of a typical soccer match, however, the stadium hosted an unforgettable experience for 500 elementary school students from across the city.
Organized by the nonprofit Baby2Baby, the event was a transformative display of community support and holiday cheer. Under a brilliant Southern California sun, the children embarked on a memorable journey, sledding on a mound of artificial snow before entering a festive indoor haven.
Here, the young guests were treated to an extraordinary shopping experience. With the help of celebrity volunteers, including Grammy Award-winning singer Demi Lovato and celebrated actress Olivia Wilde, they selected brand new winter jackets and toys. The event even featured a chance to shoot penalty kicks alongside professional soccer players, adding to the excitement.
For doubters who might think this spectacle was just a one-time gesture, Baby2Baby’s impact runs deeper. The organization, dedicated to providing essential items to children living in poverty, has been a lifeline for families for over a decade.
“"Baby2Baby will put you to work and that’s the best part," said Kelly Rowland, a longtime supporter and former member of Destiny’s Child.
Rowland, a mother herself, has witnessed firsthand the profound effect Baby2Baby has on children’s lives.
"You can’t talk about it; you have to be about it,” she said, emphasizing the organization’s hands-on approach.
It’s not just about providing material goods, but about creating an environment of empowerment and respect. "I ran into a girl and she just talked, you know what I mean? She just talked. And as she’s talking, I’m listening and at moments, you want to tear up," Rowland said.
Rowland finds inspiration in the strength and vulnerability of these children, many of whom prioritize their siblings’ needs.
“‘You can feel everything you want. You’re going to talk to me, and I’m going to listen to every single thing you have to say,’” Rowland recalled thinking, highlighting the importance of attentive listening.
Over in the toy shop, Wilde echoed Rowland’s sentiments. "One boy said to me, ‘I want to pick something small so I can make sure I keep it safe,” she shared, emphasizing the children’s desire for security and belonging.
Wilde, also a parent, appreciates the opportunity to help children feel seen and valued."It’s so wonderful to notice …(them) feeling special and to know what it’s like when a kid feels taken seriously,” she reflected.
Baby2Baby’s commitment to its mission extends beyond holiday events. Co-CEOS Norah Weinstein and Kelly Sawyer Patricof tirelessly address the specific needs of families facing adversity, from manufacturing their own diapers to providing disaster relief after natural disasters.
The commitment of Baby2Baby’s celebrity network, volunteers, and supporters is what makes its vital work possible. By believing in the power of collective action, they ensure that every child has access to the essentials they need to thrive.
Their efforts are a testament to the transformative power of compassion and community engagement.
