Winthrop-University Hospital's Cancer Center for Kids (CCK) - a unique regional resource that addresses the medical and emotional needs of children with cancer and their families - recently received a generous $7,500 donation from the All Pro Sports Academy, located in Bellport.

The funds were raised at the organization's 2006 Annual Charity Golf Outing - Swing with the Legends - hosted by the academy's Touch 'em All Foundation and the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association. During the outing, a Major League Baseball player played with each foursome.

The 18,000-square foot academy is a private baseball instructional facility where children from age 5 learn baseball skills; adult minor and major league baseball players also use the academy for training. Approximately 12,000 private lessons are given annually with 2,000 children attending academy baseball summer camps held at Little League complexes and baseball fields throughout Suffolk County.

The academy is operated by three partners - former Major League Baseball player Paul Gibson of Center Moriches, Scott June of Bayport and George Rainer, Jr. of Port Jefferson.

"I worked at Winthrop while going to college and learned all about the hospital's exceptional programs," said Rainer. "We wanted to help children and took a tour of Winthrop's Cancer Center for Kids. It was a no-brainer. How can you not give to good people doing good things?"

Winthrop's Cancer Center for Kids focuses on diagnosing and treating the range of cancers and blood disorders that afflict children. Because children have unique needs and special concerns, especially during illness, the CCK's compassionate physicians, pediatric oncology/hematology nurses and other specialists provide the specialized sophisticated care that both children and their parents need to fight childhood cancer.

For more information about Winthrop's Cancer Center for Kids, call 663-9400 or to make a donation, call 663-3398.