Eastern Illinois University Women’s Basketball team hosted its second annual CARE game event, raising $14,597 to support Sarah Bush Lincoln’s Regional Cancer Center. The CARE Game generated more than $10,000 during its inaugural year in 2018, bringing the two-year total raised to more than $25,000.
The CARE Game raises funds to help cancer survivors with their immediate needs. It also aims to educate the community about early detection and prevention of cancer. Local cancer survivors and their caregivers were honored with a reception and special seating during the game at EIU’s Lantz Arena on February 2.
The CARE game is a joint effort between EIU Women’s Basketball and area community members and schools. Funds are raised through t-shirt sales and donations, including those from local churches and EIU coaches. Elementary schools from Charleston, Mattoon and Ashmore supported the event by conducting a “Penny Drive” in their classrooms. The students in each classroom personalized jugs to collect the money which were then displayed at the CARE Game. The women’s basketball game team also organized and hosted a silent auction during the event.
Photo Cutline:
EIU Women’s Basketball players, coaches and CARE game committee members present the check to Bill Hill, Vice Chair of the SBL Health Foundation Board and Kim Lockart, Health Foundation Event Coordinater (center).