Salma Hayek Pinault was recognized for her dedication to helping children in need around the world at Baby2Baby’s annual gala on Saturday night. Channing Tatum, her co-star in Magic Mike’s Last Dance, presented her with the Giving Tree Award and described her as “one of the most magical and mystically intuitive beings.”
When she took the stage, Hayek Pinault expressed her admiration for Baby2Baby, a non-profit organization that provides basic necessities to children living in poverty. Over the last 12 years, Baby2Baby has distributed more than 375 million essential items, including diapers, formula, and clothing. Hayek Pinault emphasized the growing need to expand the organization’s reach, especially in light of the current global landscape where essential resources and human rights are often scarce.
She shared a heart-wrenching story from a medical aid trip to Sierra Leone, where she witnessed the preventable death of a newborn due to unsanitary conditions and lack of vaccinations. However, she also recalled a moment of hope when she was able to nourish a malnourished baby with her own breastmilk, bringing him back from the brink of death. These experiences ignited her passion for advocating for the well-being of all children, emphasizing that they are “our hope” and “our future.”
Other celebrities, including Olivia Wilde, Zoe Saldaña, Nicole Richie, Sofia Richie Grainge, and Kim Kardashian, attended the event and gave their remarks in support of Baby2Baby’s mission. Olivia Wilde and Zooey Deschanel were also involved in fundraising efforts, along with Miranda Kerr, Evan Spiegel, and Kim Kardashian, who made substantial donations to support the cause. The gala raised over $12 million, a testament to the generosity of the attendees and their commitment to making a positive impact.
In addition to the philanthropic aspect, the gala also featured a culinary extravaganza, with dishes curated by Los Angeles’ top chefs and restaurants. Gwyneth Paltrow and other famous chefs, including Evan Funke, Roy Choi, and Chris Bianco, served up delectable treats for the guests. Notable celebrities such as Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Jessica Alba, Chrissy Teigen, Cole Sprouse, Demi Lovato, Hailey Bieber, and Heidi Klum also graced the event with their presence. The night concluded with a performance by Snoop Dogg, adding a touch of entertainment to the meaningful evening.
Salma Hayek Pinault’s commitment to children’s well-being, along with the overwhelming support from the attendees and donors, made the Baby2Baby gala a resounding success. The event not only raised critical funds for the organization but also served as a beacon of hope for children in need and a reminder of the impact that love, compassion, and generosity can have on the world.
