Baby2Baby hosted its annual star-studded gala in West Hollywood on Saturday night, raising $18 million to further the nonprofit’s mission of providing essential items to children and families living in poverty. Presented by Paul Mitchell, the 2025 Baby2Baby Gala honored tennis icon Serena Williams with the prestigious Giving Tree Award, recognizing her advocacy for maternal health and her continued support for underserved mothers and children.
Alicia Keys took the stage to present Williams with the award, reflecting on the athlete’s impact both on and off the court. The evening also drew a rare public appearance from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who attended in support of their longtime friend Williams. The gala featured a special performance by Ludacris and appearances from Ciara, Jessica Alba, Kerry Washington, Malin Akerman, Olivia Munn and Julie Bowen, who served as presenters throughout the evening.
Co-CEOs Norah Weinstein and Kelly Sawyer Patricof addressed the audience, emphasizing the urgent need for sustained support amid rising economic hardship and ongoing climate-related crises. Over the past 14 years, Baby2Baby has distributed more than half a billion essential items—including diapers, formula, hygiene supplies and clothing—to children nationwide. The organization also recently played a significant role in disaster relief efforts following widespread fires in Los Angeles, distributing more than 31 million emergency supplies to affected families.
“These fires have reminded us never to presume who needs help,” Weinstein said. “We are serving children from across socioeconomic lines—families already living in poverty and those who suddenly find themselves without a safety net.”
Weinstein also announced the construction of Baby2Baby’s new national headquarters and warehouse in Santa Monica, slated to open in 2027 and serve as a permanent hub for distribution, volunteer engagement and nationwide outreach.
Patricof highlighted a recent $9 million grant from the state of New York, which will provide essential postpartum items to all 100,000 mothers giving birth on Medicaid next year. “Mental health is now the leading cause of maternal mortality in this country,” Patricof shared. “The goal of this program is to support the mental health of mothers who cannot afford the critical items they desperately need for their babies.”
The glamorous evening drew additional star power, including Adam Scott, Anna Kendrick, Demi Lovato, Katherine LaNasa, Leslie Mann, Lizzo, Missy Elliott, Nicole Richie, Orlando Bloom, Paris Hilton, Simu Liu, Tyler Perry and Will Ferrell, who joined in celebrating Baby2Baby’s continued commitment to children in need.
The $18 million raised will continue to expand Baby2Baby’s nationwide reach, ensuring that families facing hardship receive the foundational support necessary to care for their children with dignity.
