Mitch was nine years old when he was diagnosed with bone cancer. When he was in the hospital in December, he overheard the family next to him having a discussion that there would not be enough money for Christmas that year. Mitch looked at his dad and said, “This isn’t fair. How much money do I have in the bank?” Steve helped Mitch into his wheelchair and took him to the bank. Mitch withdrew all the money he had in his savings account and put it in envelopes for the kids on the pediatric oncology floor at the hospital. He signed each envelope, “Love Mitch. XOXO” Before nine-year-old Mitch Chepokas passed away, he made a pinky swear with his dad to continue to help children with cancer and their families. Since his death in 2003, the Pinky Swear community has carried on that promise by supporting kids with cancer and their families with housing, food, and transportation costs. By supporting families with everyday expenses, they can focus on what matters most - their child.

The Pinky Swear Orange Envelope, Pinky Swear All-Star Fund, and Pinky Swear Pantries provide support for families during different times throughout the cancer journey. The goal is the same: provide financial support for housing, food, and transportation to families battling childhood cancer.