Tampa General Hospital Foundation’s Operation Santa Toy Fundraiser Gets Matching Donation from Tampa Bay Bucs Player Tristan Wirfs

Wirfs, a team captain, will match donations up to $25,000 to support the Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH.

Tampa, FL (Dec. 4, 2024) – The Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Foundation’s annual Operation Santa campaign has a very special helper this year: Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs will match donations up to $25,000 to support Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH.

Wirfs, who is one of the captains of the Bucs, made the decision to support the hospital after his family’s experience.

“I am proud to support the Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH through Operation Santa! Earlier this year, my son was born at TGH, and it brings my family and me comfort knowing this level of care is available to everyone in our community,” Wirfs said. “As the only safety-net hospital in Tampa Bay, TGH provides exceptional care to all, regardless of their insurance status or ability to cover payments. This holiday season, as pediatric patients and their families spend time away from home, I hope you will join me in supporting this initiative to bring joy and comfort to our youngest patients. Together, we can ensure that every child receives the care and support they need, no matter their circumstances,” Wirfs said.

Operation Santa is focused this year on donations to support Operation Stock the Activity Center. The Child Life Activity Center at Muma Children’s Hospital is a place where our young patients can learn and find comfort during their stay.

All the funds raised will make it possible to purchase therapeutic play toys, cutting-edge technology, art supplies and positive distraction tools to give patients a sense of normalcy.

“We were so honored to care for Tristan’s family and grateful that he has graciously chosen to support Muma Children’s Hospital during the holidays,” said Melissa Golombek, vice president of Muma Children’s Hospital and the TGH Women’s Institute. “We are undergoing a transformation of our inpatient pediatric areas to match the high level of quality care already provided at Muma Children’s Hospital. This includes updates to our playroom area, which will house these much-needed toys collected from this campaign to support children with complex medical needs in our hospital.”

Wirfs will also support the Muma Children’s Hospital as a part of the NFL’s annual My Cause My Cleats program at the Sunday, Dec. 8 Bucs game vs. the Las Vegas Raiders. An artist designed special cleats for Wirfs, which will be revealed and auctioned after the game with proceeds donated to TGH. A group of Muma Children’s Hospital patients and their families will celebrate the reveal and watch the game as his guests.

Donations for Operation Santa can be made at: TGH.org/OperationSanta.