Alyssa Milano defends GoFundMe for son’s baseball trip amid backlash

Alyssa Milano has defended her decision to create a GoFundMe page for her son’s baseball trip, amid backlash.

The 51-year-old actor took to X, formerly known as Twitter, on 26 January to address her decision to ask for donations to the page, which she manages on behalf of her husband, David Bugliari. This post came after fans criticised the actor for making the fundraiser, with questions about why she couldn’t help fund her son Milo’s trip herself, given her successful career in Hollywood.

In her tweet, she discussed how she’s been contacted by the press about her GoFundMe, before describing some of the financial contributions she’s already given to the baseball team.

“I’m getting media inquiries about whether I have financially contributed to my son’s baseball team,” she wrote. “I’ve paid for uniforms for the entire team and coaches, thrown bday parties and sponsor any kid who can’t afford monthly dues.”

The Charmed star concluded her post by also detailing the work that the baseball team players have done to raise money. She then expressed her gratitude to the fans who’ve made contributions to the GoFundMe page.

“The kids also do fundraising themselves—car washes, movie nights, and many other fun things!” she added. “Thank you to all who have contributed to the gofundme! You’ve made things easier for these boys and their families.”

Last week, Milano first made headlines when she shared the photo of her 12-year-old son and his baseball team, while asking for those donations. “My son’s baseball team is raising money for their Cooperstown trip. Any amount would be so greatly appreciated,” she wrote.

However, many people on social media have hit back at Milano’s request, with comments about her career and claims that she should be the one making these funds.

“Why isn’t Alyssa Milano paying for the trip for the whole team herself? Why is she asking for money from people who can barely buy groceries,” one asked, while another added: “When did #GoFundMe became a way for millionaire celebrities to fund their kids’ baseball trips?”

“A group of like four to five parents pooled money for our team’s off-season travel, (and in season transit when our schools cancelled weekend bussing) when other parents couldn’t afford it. These parents were nurses, teachers, and factory workers,” a third wrote. “But Alyssa Milano needs your help right now.”

Amid the criticism, other social media users have pointed out that Milano’s husband – who she also shares a nine-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, with – has reportedly made a name for himself in the entertainment business, as well.

“Alyssa Milano is begging for donations for her son’s baseball trip. She’s reportedly worth $10m... But, wait it gets better!” one quipped. “Her husband is the co-head of Creative Artists Agency which manages dozens of the largest names in Hollywood, sports, & music.”

“Here is a woman whose net worth is right around $10m and she is pandering for money for her son’s team trip? @Alyssa_Milano this is a new low even for you,” another added.

However, some fans still showed their support for Milano, who’s notably been vocal about the MeToo Movement over the years, and the fundraiser.

“Made a small but heartfelt contribution. Sounds like a great experience for them,” one wrote, while another tweeted: “This is awesome. You’ve done so much for so many.”

As the GoFundMe was first started last year, the page has been specifically for the “BIRDS 12U team’s Travel Fund”. According to the description of the fundraiser, the donations will help keep the team “competitive”.

“We hope you will make a donation to keep our team competitive. Your donation will go to travel costs, uniforms, and dues for families,” the description reads. “We also might use your donations for pins or novelty items to make our tournaments memorable experiences beyond the field.”

The page has raised $7,811 out of its $10,000 goal, with more than 240 donations as of 26 January.

The Independent has contacted a representative for Milano for comment.