The Project 55 Foundation is a non-profit organization that exists to bring comfort and relief to hospitalized children and their families by alleviating their emotional, physical and financial burdens.
In its inaugural year, Project 55 will support the St. Louis Children's Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House of St. Louis and Blues for Kids. Each of these beneficiaries are dedicated to enhancing the lives of both the children and their families in their difficulties with hospitalization.
"I can't imagine what it's like to be a parent and having to watch your child go through hospital treatment. Or to be a kid who only knows life within the confines of the hospital," said Parayko, founder of the Project 55 Foundation. "My mom and sister are both in the medical field, and they see this every day. Through their stories and dedication to their patients, I saw an opportunity to also try to make a difference."
Parayko said his friendship with Laila Anderson has been an inspiration for the Project.
"Laila and I continue to stay in touch," Parayko said. "It's a story that resonated with the hockey community and it helped me realize that I have an opportunity to help so many others. Through the Project 55 Foundation, I want to continue to make that kind of impact. I want to help as many kids as I can."
"As valuable as Colton] is to the Blues' success on the ice, he is every bit as valuable to our community in the way he leverages his celebrity status for good," remarks President of St. Louis Children's Hospital Trish Lollo. "St. Louis Children's Hospital - and the mission we serve - is better for having a friend like Colton Parayko."
The Project 55 Foundation will allow patients and families from St. Louis Children's Hospital and Ronald McDonald House to attend a Blues game at Enterprise Center. Patients attending the game will get to watch warm-ups from the penalty box, ride the Olympia during intermission and receive a jersey.
For those interested in donating, or for more information on ways to be involved, we encourage you to visit
[project-55.com
to find out more. For media inquiries and partnership opportunities, please contact Laurenne Mercier at
[email protected]
