Anthem LemonAid Fundraising Event Expands To Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — An 11-year-old from Fredericksburg is serving as the 2025 Anthem LemonAid Ambassador, as part of a summer fundraising event in support of hematology and oncology programs at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.

Presented by Richmond Ford, Anthem LemonAid is celebrating its 25th anniversary July 18-20. The regional event raised a record-breaking $239,120 in 2024 and is set to surpass a cumulative $2 million raised since its inception.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate 25 years of lemonade stands, community spirit and lifesaving impact,” said Lauren Zaller Moore, CEO of Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Anthem LemonAid has become more than just a fundraiser; it’s become a cherished opportunity for children and families across the region to get involved and give back to children receiving lifesaving treatment at CHoR. We look forward to witnessing all the ways this event will continue to thrive and reach new heights thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of our incredible community.”

This year, Anthem LemonAid has expanded to Fredericksburg, the home of 11-year-old Ava Lester, who was chosen as this year’s Anthem LemonAid Ambassador.

“Lester is currently undergoing treatment at CHoR after being diagnosed with leukemia last year,” according to CHoR. “Despite the challenges she faces, Ava is known for her compassion and resilience — whether she’s sharing encouraging words at CHoR events or filling the Sky Lobby with music from the grand piano.”

Families, businesses, and community groups are invited to support patients at CHoR by operating their own lemonade stand. Registration is free and open through 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16. Participants will receive a LemonAid stand kit, which includes lemonade mix, cups, a pitcher, and official sign. Kits will be available for pick up July 16-17, with full details provided by email following registration. LemonAid participants will also receive a personalized online fundraising page to help promote their fundraising efforts.

In addition, local restaurants can participate by creating lemon-inspired dishes or drinks as part of LemonAid's restaurant challenge. Participating restaurants will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the children’s menu collected through July 20. The business that raises the most will be awarded with an advertising package from CBS6 worth more than $1,500.

More information about requesting a LemonAid stand kit or participating in the Restaurant Challenge is available online.