Austin FC announced in a press release Wednesday it is teaming up to support Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with the launch of the 8th annual "Kick Childhood Cancer" campaign.
The League and its social responsibility platform, MLS WORKS, want to raise awareness of pediatric cancers and fundraise for childhood cancer research at tonight's home match against LAFC, where Austin FC will celebrate and recognize local heroes in the fight against childhood cancer.
As part of the kick-off, the League will donate tickets to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, as well as honor a former pediatric cancer patient and his family on the scoreboard in-stadium. The players will also be dressed in gold custom Kick Childhood Cancer warm-up tops prior to the match - one of which will be autographed by the Austin FC team and auctioned off to give the proceeds to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
In addition, 125 pediatric cancer patients will get pajamas donated by Austin FC and St. David's HealthCare as a token of comfort, while they continue their fight against cancer.
“Austin FC and Founding Partner St. David’s HealthCare are proud to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and stand behind the many children and families whose lives have been impacted by childhood cancer,” said Kaitlin Swarts, Vice President of Community Impact. “We hope that by sharing the story of a former pediatric cancer patient, we can inspire others who are facing similar battles and drive awareness and support for childhood cancer research.”
The statement also mentions MLS Kick Childhood Cancer matches will use a commemorative MLS Adidas Nativo 21 Official Match Ball in match play.
Fans can purchase a special Austin FC KCC edition pre-match Adidas jersey on MLSstore.com.
For more information on Kick Childhood Cancer or other MLS WORKS initiatives, visit MLSsoccer.com/mlsworks.