Helping Kids is the Name of Their Game – 999 for Kids Gives Back to Miller Children's

The 999 for Kids program is part of a not-for-profit foundation that was established in 1985 by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the Department of Children and Family Services. The program was established to help physically and mentally challenged children throughout Los Angeles County. The “999” came from the “999” code that police officers use to let their fellow officers know that they need immediate help.

999 for Kids wanted to do something to help children of the Long Beach community and what better organization than the children’s hospital that cares for the city’s children. 999 for Kids decided to donate nearly $12,000 to Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach to purchase 54 DVD players to be placed in pediatric patient rooms. The DVD players are a welcome addition to the hospital and will bring hours of enjoyment and entertainment to patients at Miller Children’s.

“We’re so grateful that 999 for Kids chose Miller Children’s for such a generous donation,” says Rita Goshert, clinical operations manager, Child Life Department, Miller Children’s. “Watching videos serves as a wonderful distraction for hospitalized children, so this donation will help patients and their families cope with hospitalization.”

“Children are dependant on us for their very survival and the molding of their future,” says Pete Amico, former 999 for Kids Committee Chairman and hospital volunteer. “We owe them the best possible start in life. When circumstances beyond their control put them in the hospital then it is our obligation to make their experience as pleasant as possible. If volunteering and helping to raise funds makes their experience a better one, then I am happy to do so.”