History, Mission, Values | Pinky Swear Foundation

Mitch was nine years old when he was diagnosed with bone cancer. When he was in the hospital in December, he overheard the family next to him talking about how there would not be enough money for Christmas that year. Mitch looked at his dad and said, “This isn’t fair. How much money do I have in the bank?” His dad helped Mitch into his wheelchair and took him to the bank. Mitch withdrew all the money he had in his savings account and put it in envelopes for the kids on the pediatric oncology floor at the hospital. He signed each envelope, “Love Mitch. XOXO.” After they delivered the envelopes, Mitch said, “Dad! That was so fun! Can we do this again next year?” His dad took a deep breath and said, “I don’t think you are going to be here next year.” Mitch looked into his dad's eyes and said, “Then promise me that you will do this next year. Pinky swear promise me, Dad.” And they made a pinky swear promise. Since Mitch’s death in 2003, his family and the Pinky Swear community have kept that promise by supporting kids with cancer and their families with housing, food, and transportation costs. Because of this support, families can focus on what matters most: their child.

The Pinky Swear Orange Envelope, Pinky Swear All-Star Fund, and Pinky Swear Pantries provide support for families during different times throughout the cancer journey. The goal is the same: provide financial support for housing, food, and transportation to families battling childhood cancer.