UCSF to host kick-off event for Macy's tree lighting with Barry Bonds

**WHAT:**

Kick-off event for the 19th annual Macy’s Christmas Tree Lighting benefiting UCSF Children’s Hospital. The celebration will feature a visit from Honorary Chair Barry Bonds, as well as face painting, refreshments, and elves to entertain young patients. Great photo, audio and video opportunities.

**WHEN:**

Tuesday, October 7, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

**WHERE:**

Cole Hall Auditorium UCSF Medical Sciences Building 513 Parnassus Ave. (nearest cross street is 3rd Ave.) San Francisco

**WHO:**

Barry Bonds, Honorary Chair Mark Laret, CEO, UCSF Medical Center Roxanne Fernandes, Executive Director, UCSF Children’s Hospital Patients and staff of UCSF Children’s Hospital

**CONTACT:**

Media interested in attending should RSVP to Kate Schoen at [email protected] or (415) 476-2557.

**BACKGROUND INFORMATION:**

Macy’s partners with UCSF each year to raise funds for the UCSF Children’s Hospital palliative care program – Compass Care – which supports families whose children have life-threatening illnesses. Over the last five years, nearly $700,000 has been raised by selling lights to adorn Macy’s 80-foot-tall tree. The official tree lighting ceremony will take place Friday, November 28, the day after Thanksgiving, at 6 p.m. in Union Square.

Lights cost $5 each, and the sponsor has the choice of a flashing star pin or gourmet chocolate bar.

Lights may be purchased:

* From UCSF Medical Center managers and staff
* At the UCSF Medical Center cafeteria and gift shop
* By calling 415-353-4172
* Via the UCSF Medical Center website at: **