8th annual lemonade stand childhood cancer fundraiser set for June

Caroline Gallagher’s C&C Lemonade Factory hosts the 8th annual lemonade stand childhood cancer fundraiser. The event will be hosted on Saturday, June 1, 10am–1:30pm at the residence of Caroline, Charlotte, and Charles Gallagher: 6312 Dartmouth Ave., St. Petersburg.

If you cannot attend, but wish to donate, you may do so electronically via PayPal, Venmo: CCLemonadeFactory, or Zelle: C&C Lemonade Factory. Checks and cash are also acceptable.

100% of donations go directly toward children’s cancer research (60% to John Hopkins Children’s Hospital; 40% to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a national charity).

When Charles Gallagher’s eldest daughter Caroline was 18-months-old, she was diagnosed with Leukemia. Six months later, Caroline’s 2-year-old cousin, Julia, was diagnosed with cancer as well. After 2.5 years of fighting at John Hopkins, Caroline went into remission and is now 10 years old, a survivor. Her cousin Julia sadly succumbed to her diagnosis.

Lemonade stand looking to raise over $20,000 annually

In Julia’s memory, Caroline ideated a lemonade stand that would raise money to provide toys to her friends still being treated in the hospital. In the first year, Caroline raised $54, but by year three, she raised $13,000. Now C&C Lemonade Factory is looking to raise north of $20,000 annually.

Thanks to robust community support and sponsorship, C&C Lemonade Factory has added events to the annual fundraiser. This year, attendees are invited to enjoy face painting, balloon animals, a popcorn and candy tent, photo booth, donor raffle, and, of course, lemonade. For adult attendees 21+, there’s a HARD lemonade option. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Street Team will provide an inflatable throwing station and uniforms. St. Pete Fire and Rescue will make an appearance, and they are bringing their fire engine for children to play on.

Since only about 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s budget goes toward Children’s cancer research, while about 96% goes to adult cancer research, fundraisers and private donations from the community pivotally impact the lives of children battling cancer.