Kristen Bell, the renowned actress, has teamed up with internet sensation Tommy Marcus to create a movement aimed at supporting individuals facing financial hardships due to medical expenses. Their initiative involves promoting one health-related GoFundMe page per week through their social media platforms. This collaboration leverages their combined influence of nearly 17 million followers to raise awareness and funds for those in dire need. Marcus initiated the idea by proposing they highlight these critical fundraising campaigns daily for over a week. Bell enthusiastically agreed, recognizing the potential impact of such an effort.
The duo’s first campaign successfully raised $25,000 within just 20 minutes for a third-grader battling leukemia, which Bell matched to double the amount. They emphasize the unfortunate reality of needing such fundraisers but are determined to make a difference despite systemic challenges. Marcus stressed that while policy changes are needed, immediate action can transform lives now. Bell's history of philanthropy includes advocating for peace and humanitarian causes, as well as supporting organizations like Baby2Baby and No Kid Hungry.
A New Approach to Fundraising
This innovative partnership between Bell and Marcus aims to harness public energy surrounding healthcare issues. By sharing one health-related GoFundMe page each week, they hope to draw attention to the struggles faced by many families. The pair believes this method can provide significant support to those in urgent need of financial assistance for medical treatments. Through their combined reach, they aim to inspire others to contribute and spread awareness.
Marcus initially proposed the idea to Bell via Instagram Direct Messages, explaining his vision to address the broken healthcare system by highlighting these critical needs. He shared that he frequently receives tragic stories about medical insurance-related funding requests. Recognizing Bell's substantial following and influence, he invited her to join forces. Bell was immediately on board, responding positively and even offering to donate the remaining amount needed for a previous fundraiser Marcus had promoted. She expressed a desire to give $100,000 to help alleviate medical bills, seeking advice on the best approach. Together, they decided to crowd-fund half the amount and have Bell cover the rest. This collaborative strategy ensures maximum impact and transparency.
Transforming Lives Through Collaboration
Bell and Marcus’s efforts have already made a tangible difference. Their recent campaign for a young girl named Mila, who is fighting leukemia, garnered $25,000 in just 20 minutes. Bell promptly matched this amount, bringing the total to $50,000. This rapid success underscores the power of their joint initiative. Despite the somber reality that necessitates such actions, both parties remain committed to making a positive change. Marcus acknowledged the sad aspect of having to resort to crowdfunding for life-saving treatments but emphasized the importance of immediate action.
Beyond this specific campaign, Bell has a long-standing commitment to philanthropy. As a global advocate for the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund since 2018, she has worked tirelessly to promote peace and respond to crises in various communities. Her dedication extends to other charitable endeavors, including Baby2Baby, No Kid Hungry, and Mercy For Animals. These efforts highlight her unwavering commitment to improving lives and addressing societal issues. Through her collaboration with Marcus, Bell continues to leverage her platform for meaningful change, demonstrating that individual actions can collectively lead to significant impacts.