Travolta and Preston Raise Funds for Premature Babies

John Travolta and his wife, Kelly Preston, helped raise over $1 million for St Vincent's HealthCare Foundation in Jacksonville, Florida, on Friday.

The pair attended the Foundation’s 27th Annual Red Rose Ball, the oldest charity ball in Jacksonville. The 2008 black-tie event began with cocktails, followed by dinner. Silent and live auctions featured memorabilia signed by Travolta.

The proceeds from this year’s event are going towards the renovation of the neonatal intensive care unit within Marcia C. and Ricardo Morales, Jr. Infant Nursery at St. Vincent’s .

“John Travolta is a very philanthropic man,” said the actor’s lead attorney and Red Rose Ball Honorary Co-Chair, Michael Ossi, Esq. “More than anything, John wants to help the infants of Florida. He cares deeply about children, and is determined to help St. Vincent’s build this neonatal unit.”

The unit will provide 11 beds for premature infants and babies at risk of serious complications.

“St. Vincent’s has a history of providing some of the best care for our tiniest patients, including those little treasures delivered ahead of an expected due date,” said Jane R. Lanier, CFRE, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of St. Vincent’s HealthCare Foundation. “We are grateful for every gift, which will help to assure that these tiny miracles are cared for in the most loving way and sent home happy and well with their families.”