Mattel Donates $50 Million To UCLA To Expand Children's Hospital

EL SEGUNDO, CA -- El Segundo-based toy-maker Mattel announced a $50 million donation Monday to UCLA Health to help fund an expansion of UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital and establish a pediatric care center and research facility dedicated to children's health.

The gift is the largest ever made to UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital.

"By combining the resources and expertise of two of Los Angeles' leaders in children's health and wellness, we are ensuring world-class care to the neediest in our community," UCLA Chancellor Gene Block said. "This partnership extends our impact far beyond what either of us could achieve on our own, and together, UCLA and Mattel will build on our commitment to establish the best children's hospital in the world."

The donation is part of the $4.2 billion UCLA Centennial Campaign, which is scheduled to end in December 2019 during UCLA's 100th anniversary year.

Mattel has donated more than $80 million to UCLA and its health system over the past 20 years.

"Mattel has always been committed to serving our communities in meaningful and impactful ways," said Richard Dickson, Mattel's president and chief operating officer. "Today's gift is an extension of that legacy, and more importantly, it will help ensure that even more children and families will benefit from exceptional health care at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital."

-- City News Service, photo courtesy of UCLA Health