2024 is drawing into its ultimate act, which suggests it’s as soon as once more time for Thankmas. The occasion — which entails avid gamers, celebrities and content material creators elevating cash for charitable companions — is that this yr partnering with Disaster Textual content Line and Samaritans, disaster hotlines primarily based within the U.S. and U.Okay., respectively, that supply help for these fighting psychological well being. 2024’s occasion can be held stay on the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles on December 6, with tickets going stay at present.
Created by YouTuber Sean “Jacksepticeye” McLoughlin in 2017, Thankmas has partnered with charities reminiscent of Pink Nostril Day, World Central Kitchen, New Story and Charity: Water. Throughout the years, the occasion has raised over $25 million in complete, and raised $6 million for World Central Kitchen final yr. $6 million can be its objective for this yr’s occasion. As earlier than, the occasion is hosted by the fundraising platform Tiltify, who added that the roster of creators collaborating within the stay occasion can be introduced quickly.
Talking with GamesBeat, McLoughlin mentioned, “In 2023, Samaritans and Crisis Text Line volunteers spent more than 1.4 million hours answering calls and texts for help. I talk very openly about my own mental health, including struggles with depression, and how prioritizing mental wellness is important. I’ve been going to therapy and I’m in a better headspace, but access to help and support was such a key part of
my own journey. The work Samaritans and Crisis Text Line do is so important. So I’m glad to be able to work with them for Thankmas this year.”
The significance of disaster hotlines
McLoughlin added, “The $6 million goal for this year will help train 9000 new volunteers across Samaritans and Crisis Text Lines to support incoming calls & texts for people in crisis. The funds will also be used to invest in hardware and software to help expand and enhance the digital reach of these programs since reaching people by online chat/text is paramount. Finally, the funds will help support awareness programs across multiple countries and in schools.”
Dena Trujillo, CEO of Disaster Textual content Line, and Julie Bentley, CEO of Samaritans, each expressed their appreciation for Thankmas. Trujillo mentioned of the partnership, “Supporting mental health isn’t just an act of kindness—it’s a powerful way to change and save lives. Every donation provides critical mental health support and resources for those who are struggling. Thank you, Sean, for your unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives.”
Bentley added, “To be chosen as one of only two charities worldwide that will benefit from Thankmas 2024 is incredibly humbling. Our 23,000 wonderful volunteers help people they’ll never meet
through their darkest times, answering a call for help to our listening service every ten seconds. It is
fitting that they, in turn, will be supported by the kindness of strangers from all over the world.”
