By MDA Staff Writer | October 14, 2026
TUNICA COUNTY, Miss. — A Mississippi Delta community is coming together Friday to support critically ill children and the families who stand beside them.
The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office is scheduled to host its 11th annual Charity Golf Tournament on October 16 at Tunica National Golf & Tennis.
The annual fundraiser benefits Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, which provides specialized medical care to children throughout the Mid-South, including families from Mississippi.
This year’s event carries a particularly meaningful message as organizers recognize a young patient whose medical journey illustrates the importance of access to specialized pediatric care.
A Young Girl’s Journey Inspires the Community
The 2026 tournament will honor Kenleigh D’Nari Hibbler, a young girl who faced significant medical challenges immediately after her birth.
According to the sheriff’s office, Kenleigh was born May 13, 2025, weighing just 1 pound, 11 ounces.
She required respiratory assistance and specialized medical treatment during the first months of her life.
Kenleigh spent approximately 10 months receiving care at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital before returning home to her family.
The sheriff’s office reports that she continues making progress while receiving respiratory support.
Her family’s experience has become the inspiration behind this year’s tournament, encouraging residents and businesses to support other children facing serious medical conditions. Tunica County Sheriff’s Office
More Than $100,000 Raised Through Community Support
The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office reports that its annual golf tournament has raised more than $100,000 for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital over the past decade.
The fundraiser brings together law enforcement personnel, local businesses, sponsors and community members who share an interest in supporting pediatric healthcare.
Funds generated through the tournament are intended to help the hospital continue serving children and families facing difficult medical circumstances.
The annual event has also become an example of how community partnerships can extend beyond traditional law enforcement responsibilities.
Organizers Make Final Push for Participation
As preparations entered their final days, organizers continued encouraging participation.
In an October 14 update, the sheriff’s office reported that three additional teams were needed to reach its goal of 18 teams.
The announcement listed October 15 at 3 p.m. as the team registration deadline.
The final number of registered teams had not been independently confirmed as of early Friday morning.
Organizers have also encouraged residents and businesses to support the fundraiser through sponsorships and donations.
Those seeking information about the tournament can contact the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office at 662-363-1411. Mississippi News Group
Supporting Families Beyond the Mississippi Delta
Although Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital is located in Memphis, Tennessee, its medical services extend to children throughout the surrounding region.
The hospital provides pediatric specialty services, including neonatal care, surgery and treatment for complex medical conditions.
For families in rural communities, access to specialized healthcare can require travel outside their home counties.
Community fundraising efforts help support institutions that provide these essential services.
The hospital’s official website also offers information about donations, volunteer opportunities and other ways individuals can support its mission.
A Tradition of Giving Continues
Friday’s tournament represents another opportunity for Tunica County residents to demonstrate the strength of community involvement.
For organizers, the event is about more than a day on the golf course.
It is an opportunity to recognize the experiences of families facing serious childhood illnesses while supporting the healthcare professionals who care for them.
The recognition of Kenleigh Hibbler adds a personal connection to this year’s fundraiser.
As Tunica County prepares for its 11th annual charity tournament, the community’s continuing commitment to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital demonstrates how local partnerships can make a difference in the lives of children and families throughout the region.
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Source: Tunica County Sheriff’s Office and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital