Every hat we send is a reminder that no child fights cancer alone. From financial relief to care packages, we help brighten the lives of children and families facing pediatric cancer.
About
It takes a community to lift a child’s spirit.
What started as a small gesture for a kindergartner named Ellie has grown into a national mission to support families facing childhood cancer. Since 2014, Ellie’s Hats has donated over $770,000 to families in need, sent thousands of hats to hospitals and clinics, and provided care packages and unforgettable experiences to children battling cancer. And we’re just getting started.
760k+
Raised to Date
Our Story
How a P.E. teacher, a kindergartner, and a few colorful hats launched a national nonprofit.
In 2013, Ellie Whitfield was diagnosed with leukemia. By the time she entered kindergarten, she had lost her hair and wore hats to school every day. Her P.E. teacher, Jay Coakley, noticed how much joy those hats brought her and organized a hat drive in her honor. That small gesture became Ellie’s Hats—a nonprofit that now provides emotional and financial support to children with cancer and their families across the country.
It started with one hat and turned into something families can count on.
Sponsors & Partners
“When our daughter was diagnosed, everything felt overwhelming. The package from Ellie’s Hats arrived at just the right time—it made her smile again, and reminded us we weren’t alone.”
Parentof a 6-year-old girl, Virginia
“The financial support we received from Ellie’s Hats helped cover basic expenses during our son’s treatment. It was a lifeline during one of the hardest times in our lives.”
Parentof a teenage boy, Fairfax Virginia
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
More Than Just a Hat⚬
How You Can Help
Get Involved
There are a variety of ways you can help make a difference, from volunteering to collecting hats. See opportunities below.
Give
Sponsor a Family
Provide financial relief for a family whose child is battling cancer. Reach out to learn how you can help.
Collect
Hold a Hat Drive
Host a hat drive to collect new hats for children with cancer. We’ll guide you through every step.
Partner
Become a Sponsor
Tap into a vast library of free, beautiful animations or create your own using Adobe After Effects.
Support
Donate
Your gift provides hope, comfort, and financial assistance to families facing childhood cancer.
Join
Volunteer
Join our team at local fundraisers, hat drives, and events to make a direct difference for families.