As Foster Care Awareness Month came to its close, Murphy-Harpst Children’s Centers joined with the Atlanta Braves’ affiliate Gwinnett Stripers for a special night of baseball with purpose at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville on May 30.Fans gathered to watch the Stripers battle the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp—and to help support the mission of providing healing and hope to Georgia’s most vulnerable youth.

A portion of every ticket purchased through our special link went directly to Murphy-Harpst, turning every inning into an opportunity to make a difference.

Before the game, a group of students proudly marched on the field with a Murphy-Harpst banner, showing the crowd who they were supporting, along with hand made signs held up to spread awareness about our work. It was moving to see so many people in the stands cheer on our kids as they walked by.

The Stripers also highlighted our mission with a special shout-out on the big screen, making sure everyone in attendance knew about Murphy-Harpst and the role they could play in helping children heal from trauma and neglect.

Our team set up a table on the concourse to talk with fans throughout the evening. We shared information about our programs and handed out materials about our work with children and youth to those who wanted to learn more or get involved. Fans also had the opportunity to place their names in a drawing for UGA mini helmets autographed by Cedartown’s own Nick Chubb, now an NFL running back, as well as a Braves replica jersey.  It was inspiring to speak with many who were interested in the work we do and eager to support it.

We’re grateful to the Gwinnett Stripers for their partnership and for making us feel so welcome. And we’re thankful for every fan who purchased a ticket to benefit Murphy-Harpst, stopped by our table, or cheered on our students as they walked onto the field.

Events like these are about more than fundraising—they’re about building community and reminding these kids that people all over Georgia believe in them and their future.

If you missed the game  but want to learn more about supporting our mission in foster care, visit https://murphyharpst.org/foster or reach out to us directly.

Together, we can continue bringing hope and healing to those who need it most.