Panda Cares Center of Hope Launches with George Kittle

In September of 2020, Panda Express announced a 10-year fundraising commitment to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals around the country including UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. Through its philanthropic foundation Panda Cares, numerous CMN member hospitals have debuted Panda Cares Center of Hope locations across the country. The Panda Cares Center of Hope inspires hope and promotes healing by providing specially curated programs that address each child’s entire well-being, including their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs.

Thanks to the more than $675,000 raised by Panda Express in 2020, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals was able to add an additional Chaplain to their Spiritual Care Services, expand the Cochlear Implant Program, provide support for Child Life services dedicated to the emotional well being of our patients, and fund critical mental health services at the Center for Child Protection.

In celebration of the Panda Cares Center of Hope at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland, professional football player George Kittle paid a virtual visit to patients in the hospital, answering their questions and hosting a game of bingo. The patients cherished the opportunity to meet their sports hero asking questions ranging from off-season training regimens to his favorite order from Panda Express!

Panda’s long-term support will continue to help communities and transform how UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals meet our most urgent needs, save more lives and protect our collective future. We could not be more grateful for their support.