Packers Players Deliver Gifts to Green Bay Children's Hospital

Current and former players team up with Basket of Hope to brighten patients' day

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:15pm

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A group of current and former Green Bay Packers players visited HSHS St. Vincent Children's Hospital on Tuesday, delivering gift baskets to patients and their families as part of the Super Baskets of Hope initiative. The players, including rookie defensive end Barryn Sorrell and Packers alumni Evan Smith, Chris Francies, and Junius Coston, teamed up with the nonprofit organization Basket of Hope to provide the children with games, toys, crafts, stuffed animals, and books, while also giving their parents and caregivers items to help support them during the medical journey.

Why it matters

The Packers' visit to the children's hospital is part of a larger effort by the NFL to ensure hospitalized children in all 32 league cities can experience the joy of the Super Bowl. This annual event, launched in 2012 by NFL Hall of Famer Tony Dungy, aims to bring comfort, hope, and encouragement to young patients and their families during challenging times.

The details

As part of the Super Baskets of Hope initiative, the Packers players personally delivered the gift baskets to the patients at HSHS St. Vincent Children's Hospital. Each child received a variety of items, including games, toys, craft supplies, a stuffed animal, and a book. The parents and caregivers also received a tote filled with items designed to support them during their medical journey.

  • The Packers players visited the hospital on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

The players

Barryn Sorrell

Rookie defensive end for the Green Bay Packers.

Evan Smith

Former offensive lineman for the Green Bay Packers.

Chris Francies

Former wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers.

Junius Coston

Former offensive lineman for the Green Bay Packers.

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What they’re saying

“We are so grateful to Basket of Hope for bringing this event to HSHS St. Vincent Children's Hospital. It really reinforced that our patients and families are part of a caring community that continually gives back, bringing comfort, hope and encouragement during a challenging time.”

— Amy Bardon, Director of Nursing at HSHS St. Vincent Children's Hospital

The takeaway

The Packers' visit to the children's hospital is a heartwarming example of how professional sports teams can use their platform to make a positive impact on their local community, especially for those facing difficult medical challenges. By partnering with organizations like Basket of Hope, the Packers are able to bring joy and comfort to young patients and their families during a trying time.