ABOUT YOUR IMPACT: THE LITTLE BIT FOUNDATION
At Big League Impact, our mission is simple: to help people in times of need. Since 2013, we’ve partnered with MLB players and their fans to raise funds and awareness for causes like childhood cancer, global poverty, and clean water access. We believe that when people come together, they can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
One of the organizations we support is The Little Bit Foundation, which has had a profound impact on families like Jessica Johnson-Boykin’s. Former St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt has championed its mission through our #ALLWIN St. Louis campaigns and other fundraising efforts.
Jessica remembers how much her daughter, Deja, looked forward to visits from The Little Bit Foundation during her time at Peabody Elementary in St. Louis. The organization provides essential items—books, school supplies, and winter clothing—small gifts that create a lasting impact.
“First, it was a pencil and colorful bookmark, then books, then a coat and new shoes for the winter. Every time, it was a wonder to her,” Jessica recalls.
Most importantly, the books Deja received ignited her love for reading, helping her develop early phonetic awareness.
“I truly believe that having books in front of her — and the encouragement from people outside our family — fostered her creativity and passion for words,” Jessica shares.
That love for storytelling inspired Deja to submit her own book to the Young Authors in Illinois Contest, where she wrote about a community coming together to clean up pollution.
When Jessica learned that The Little Bit Foundation was expanding into the East St. Louis School District, where she now works as a mental health specialist, she was thrilled.
“I know from my work that when we feel better, we do better. Having a community partner that helps students feel confident and supported is invaluable,” she says.
As the manager of the district’s Project Aware grant, Jessica works closely with students and staff on mental health literacy, substance abuse awareness, and connecting families with resources. She believes that partnerships like these send a powerful message.
“All of these efforts show a commitment to supporting the whole child.”
We’re grateful to The Little Bit Foundation for their incredible work and to Paul Goldschmidt for introducing us to such a meaningful organization. Thanks to efforts like these, more children will receive the resources and encouragement they need to thrive.
