Our mission goes far beyond hats. At Ellie’s Hats, we’re focused on helping children with cancer and their families feel seen, supported, and surrounded by care. Whether it’s a financial gift, a care package, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience, everything we do is designed to bring light to a dark time.
What We Do
Support that meets
families where they are.
Provide Relief When It’s Needed Most
Ellie’s Helps
Families caring for a child with cancer often face overwhelming medical and daily living costs. That’s why we offer direct financial support to those who need it most.
Through our partnership with social workers at the Pediatric Specialists of Virginia Clinic, five families each month receive $1,000 checks to help cover essentials. If your child is being treated there and your family is in need, please connect with the clinic’s social workers.
Support Families From Day One
Hero Bag Program
A new diagnosis can be incredibly disorienting. Our Hero Bag Program, offered through Inova Children’s Hospital, provides newly admitted pediatric cancer patients with practical and comforting items—like blankets, games, and personal care products—to help families through those early, uncertain days.
To date, we’ve donated more than 200 Hero Bags.
Make Joy Possible
Grant a Wish
Some support can’t be boxed up. Through our Grant a Wish program, we help create meaningful moments for children—big and small. From gifting sports memorabilia to connecting kids with their heroes, we work with families to understand their child’s interests and bring a little magic into their lives.
Past wishes have included:
A backyard basketball court for a child in a wheelchair
Meet-and-greets with Steph Curry and Kirk Cousins
A video message from soccer star Christian Pulisic
A donated car and a renovated powder room for families in need
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
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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.