M-Braves Partnering With MiLB To Launch CommUNITY First Campaign

For every $10 donated, the M-Braves will donate one ticket to a future home game to a local hero

PEARL, April 28, 2020 – The Mississippi Braves today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball, in conjunction with Feeding America® and Mississippi Food Network to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

M-Braves fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirstthrough May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Mississippi Braves as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the central Mississippi community. For every $10 donated, the M-Braves will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

“The central Mississippi community is known for rallying around those that are in need. The M-Braves, together with our fans, look forward to partnering with MiLB CommUNITY First, Feeding America and our friends at the Mississippi Food Network on this important initiative.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Mississippi Braves fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting MISSISSIPPI BRAVES at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

 

Loons Join MiLB’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

MIDLAND, Mich. — The Great Lakes Loons today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Loons fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Loons as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. For every $10 donated, the Loons will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

Since 1981, the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan has grown to serve more than 331,000 people annually through a network of over 700 Hunger Relief Partners, including partner agencies, schools, and other community organizations.

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Loons fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Loons at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

The Great Lakes Loons have been the Single-A partner of the Los Angeles Dodgers since the team’s inception in 2007. Dow Diamond serves as the team’s home and also houses the Michigan Baseball Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity, and ESPN 100.9-FM. For tickets or information about the Loons, call 989-837-BALL or visit Loons.com.

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Pulaski Yankees, Salem Red Sox join forces for MiLB CommUNITY First campaign

Pulaski Yankees, Salem Red Sox join forces for MiLB CommUNITY First campaign

PULASKI, Va./SALEM, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees and Salem Red Sox today announced the two Minor League Baseball teams are joining forces for a national community initiative in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with Feeding America®, Minor League Baseball ™ (MiLB™) is launching the MiLB CommUNITY First campaign to raise funds for local food banks while also honoring local heroes who are risking their lives on the front lines of the pandemic.

“We are excited to put the Red Sox/ Yankees rivalry aside and partner with our friends in Pulaski on this great initiative,” said Salem Red Sox General Manager Allen Lawrence. “Our food banks need our assistance now more than ever so we need to come together as one, as we are all in this together.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

Contributions from Red Sox and Yankees fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Additionally, one ticket for a future MiLB game will be donated to a local first responder, healthcare worker, or grocery store worker per $10 donation.

To make a donation, fans can visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and will have the option to select either the Pulaski Yankees or the Salem Red Sox as their favorite team, with the funds and tickets routed back to each community. The campaign will conclude on May 31, 2020.

“We are excited to work with our friends in Salem on this initiative and look forward to seeing Yankees fans and Red Sox fans come together to support our communities during this time,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Betsy Haugh. “Our local heroes are working so hard to keep us all safe and healthy during this pandemic, and this is a great way for us all to show our appreciation for their tireless efforts.”

More than 100 Minor League Baseball teams are participating in the MiLB CommUNITY First initiative across the United States, and the MiLB national office has committed a $5,000 donation from MiLB Charities, equaling 50,000 meals provided through Feeding America. To join the national campaign by donating or for more information, visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

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The Pulaski Yankees are the Advanced Rookie affiliate of the New York Yankees, competing in the Appalachian League. The team plays at Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park, which was renovated for the team’s first season as a Yankees affiliate in 2015.

The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Ballpark in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

National initiative will raise funds for Feeding America in response to global pandemic

 

DES MOINES, IA — The Iowa Cubs today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

I-Cubs fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Iowa Cubs as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Des Moines community. For every $10 donated, the I-Cubs will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

“Through these unprecedented times, we want to give back to the community that has supported us for over 50 years,” said Iowa Cubs President and General Manager, Sam Bernabe. “This program is a way to make an immediate impact at our local food banks, while also saying ‘thank you’ to those on the front lines.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from I-Cubs fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Iowa Cubs at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

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About Feeding America

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

 

Tennessee Smokies Join Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

SEVIERVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Smokies announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Smokies fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Tennessee Smokies as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Eastern Tennessee community. For every $10 donated, the Smokies will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

“The core behind the Tennessee Smokies and across Minor League Baseball is the community,” stated Tim Volk, Smokies General Manager. “During this unprecedented time, we want to make sure our community members are taken care of which is why we are joining Minor League Baseball in the CommUNITY First Campaign.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from the Smokies fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting the Tennessee Smokies at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com.

ABOUT FEEDING AMERICA

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Captains Join Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

(Eastlake, OH), April 28, 2020 — The Lake County Captains today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Captains fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Lake County Captains as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Northeast Ohio community. For every $10 donated, the Captains will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to local heroes of the pandemic at Lake Health and the City of Eastlake Police and Fire Departments.

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Captains fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Lake County Captains at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

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*About the Lake County Captains *

The Lake County Captains are the Class-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. For more information, visit the Captains’ website at www.CaptainsBaseball.com, Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/CaptainsBaseball, Twitter @LCCaptains and Instagram @LCCaptains. Fans can also get the latest Captains news and offers by signing up for the Captains’ newsletter, The Anchor.

About Feeding America

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Columbia Fireflies Join Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

Columbia, S.C. – The Columbia Fireflies today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fireflies fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Columbia Fireflies as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Midlands community. For every $10 donated, the Fireflies will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic.

“Columbia has a long history of coming together as a community to lift each other up during times of crisis and loss,” said Fireflies team president John Katz. “Columbia is our home and will be for decades to come. This is a great opportunity to help raise funds for our community and to reward the brave men and women serving on the front-line of the pandemic response teams across the Midlands, from healthcare workers to first responders and everyone in between.”

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Fireflies fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Columbia Fireflies at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

Mudcats Join MiLB’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

ZEBULON, N.C., April 28, 2020 – The Carolina Mudcats today announced they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) in conjunction with Feeding America®, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mudcats fans are encouraged to visit MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst through May 31 to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Carolina Mudcats as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to the Triangle and East Wake community. For every $10 donated, the Mudcats will donate one ticket to a future home game to a local hero of the pandemic.

School closures, rising unemployment and rising poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Mudcats fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting “Carolina Mudcats” at MiLB.com/CommUNITYFirst and use #MiLBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

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About Carolina Mudcats
The Carolina Mudcats are the proud Carolina League, Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. First established in 1991, the two-time Southern League Champion Mudcats are entering their 30th consecutive season of baseball at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, N.C. The Mudcats are owned and operated by the Milwaukee Brewers.

About Feeding America
Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate. Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Fayetteville Woodpeckers Join Minor League Baseball’s CommUNITY First Campaign

 

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Fayetteville Woodpeckers announced today they are joining MiLB CommUNITY First, a new national initiative developed by Minor League Baseball in conjunction with Feeding America, to raise funds for local food banks and to honor individuals risking their lives on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Woodpeckers fans are encouraged to visit MILB.com/CommUNITYFirst starting today, April 28th through May 31st to donate. Once on the site, fans can choose their donation amount and the Fayetteville Woodpeckers as the recipient of their donation to direct funds to Fayetteville’s Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeastern North Carolina. For every $10 raised, the Woodpeckers will donate one ticket to a future home game this season or in 2021 to a local hero of the pandemic. Additionally, the club has pledged to match up to $3,000 of the donation amount contributed to this initiative from their team charity, The Fayetteville Woodpeckers Fund.

“We admire Minor League Baseball’s activity during this challenging period,” said Mark Zarthar, President of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers. “They have continued to engage with baseball fans throughout the nation and support the small businesses that are MiLB clubs. The CommUNITYFirst initiative will leverage the scale of our platform to both feed the hungry and honor those on the front lines. We are proud to partner with MiLB and Feeding America.”

School closures, rising unemployment and poverty due to quarantine and extended stay-at-home orders have disproportionately impacted people already at risk of hunger and could result in an estimated additional 17.1 million people experiencing food insecurity in the next six months, according to Feeding America. As the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization with a network of more than 200 affiliates, Feeding America has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.

In response, contributions from Fayetteville Woodpeckers fans and Minor League Baseball will help ensure families and individuals across the country most impacted by the pandemic are fed and cared for during these uncertain times. Join the national campaign by donating and selecting Fayetteville Woodpeckers at https://milbstore.com/products/milb-community-first and use #MILBCommUNITYFirst on social media to show your support.

 

South Bend Cubs Go to Bat Against Hunger and Honor our Fallen Heroes

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs, in conjunction with Express Employment Professionals, are proud to host a collection for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, during the Memorial Day weekend four-game homestand. The Cubs are asking all fans coming to the games to donate non-perishable food items and placing them in the orange barrels located inside all gates at Four Winds Field.

“The entire Express Employment Professionals team is thrilled that the South Bend Cubs have said ‘Yes’ to fighting hunger by hosting the Food Bank’s orange collection barrels at all gates for the upcoming home games,” said Norm Robertson, franchise owner of Express. “We know that the generosity of our community is unparalleled when it comes to helping others in need.”

Along with the food drive over the holiday weekend, the South Bend Cubs and Express Employment Professionals are providing all active duty military and veterans with two free tickets the games on Sunday, May 28 and Monday, May 29 at Four Winds Field.

“Although a solemn day of reflection in remembrance of the multitude of men and women who have lost their lives in the defense of our country, Memorial Day also reminds us of the resilience of our constitutional republic, and how we are always the first to grab the flag and lead others in the direction of all peoples yearning to breathe free,” said Express Employment Professionals Director of Marketing Greg Mackey. “Express Employment Professionals is honored to sponsor Military Appreciation Days on behalf of our active-duty military personnel and our veterans and in partnership with Andrew Berlin, Joe Hart, and this great South Bend Cubs organization!”

“Every year, we are honored to partner with Express Employment Professionals to give back to our local veterans and those who are on active duty in the military as a small way to say thank you for your service,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “The collection for the Food Bank of Northern Indiana is a great addition to this weekend of giving back. We encourage our fans to bring non-perishable food items to join us in the fight against hunger.”

In order to receive the two free tickets, all active duty personnel and veterans must visit the South Bend Cubs Box Office and show a form of military ID. This offer is not available over the phone or online. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Should either game sell out, lawn tickets will be provided.

Sunday’s game has a special first pitch time of 7:05 p.m. with gates opening at 5:00 p.m. with fireworks after the game. Monday’s game has a scheduled first pitch at 2:05 p.m. and gates open at 1:00 p.m.

The South Bend Cubs are one of over 150 area volunteer organizations helping to fight hunger and food insecurity this summer with the North-Central Indiana offices of Express Employment Professionals, as a part of Express’s “Brand It Blue” food drive campaign.

About Express Employment Professionals:

Express Employment Professionals is a leading workforce staffing provider in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Founded in 1983, Express Employment Professionals has nearly 800 franchise locations, including three franchise offices covering a six county area and located in Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Warsaw, in North-Central Indiana. Express specializes in the placement of job-seekers with employers for commercial, administrative, skilled trades, and professional positions.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Grasshoppers Step Up to Help GUM Food Pantry

GREENSBORO, N.C. – With less than a week’s supply of food on the shelves, Greensboro Urban Ministry’s executive director turned to the community for help on Monday afternoon. On Wednesday, Greensboro Grasshoppers President and General Manager Donald Moore delivered a home run.

The Hoppers presented Greensboro Urban Ministry (GUM) with a check for $5,000 to purchase needed food items immediately.

“Hunger and food insecurity create a terrible need in our community, and we thought it was the right thing to do to get involved and encourage others to step up so that our neighbors who need food can continue to receive help,” Moore said Wednesday afternoon. “This donation – and the tremendous support it represents – is such a blessing to the households who are counting on food assistance to make ends meet,” said Rev. Myron W. Wilkins, GUM executive director. “We are thankful and grateful for the Grasshoppers’ quick and generous response.”
The Greensboro Grasshoppers are a key partner in GUM and Church World Service’s annual CROP Hunger Walk.

Greensboro Urban Ministry’s Food Pantry is the largest local resource for men, women and families who lack adequate access to food. Requests for assistance continue to increase. In the first 12 business days in January, GUM distributed 49,686 pounds of food through emergency assistance food bags, compared with 59,132 pounds for the entire month of January 2016.

GUM distributed 1,058,152 pounds of food to the community in 2016 through the food pantry and Potter’s House Community Kitchen, which serves lunch daily to anyone in the community who is hungry. The majority of the food, 759,737 pounds, was distributed through the food pantry to men, women and families with children needing food assistance. GUM assisted 38,429 individuals and 20,947 households with food assistance in 2016.

About Greensboro Urban Ministry
Greensboro Urban Ministry, since 1967, has worked to share the love of God with people in need through practical action. The agency’s work centers on several programs: emergency financial and food assistance to help households avoid eviction; shelter for men and women at Weaver House and families at Pathways Center; daily lunch in Potter’s House Community Kitchen; and case management and financial assistance to support men, women and families moving back into permanent housing.

Please learn more about Greensboro Urban Ministry by visiting our website: www.greensborourbanministry.org.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Announce Charity Partnerships For 2015 Season

Partnerships with multiple organizations to positively impact local causes in 2015

Kane-County-CougarsThe Kane County Cougars have announced a community outreach partnership for the 2015 season in which four organizations will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through Ozzie’s Outreach Foundation, the Cougars’ charitable arm. Those four organizations are Project Backpack (April/May), DuPage Pads (June), Northern Illinois Food Bank (July) and Family Shelter Service (August/September). Also, the Cougars through their partnership with Acres Group, have announced that the Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this season’s “Pitch In For Charity” promotion in which fans, following select games, purchase and throw numbered tennis balls onto a target in order to win a prize.

Project Backpack (project-backpack.org) is a community-based initiative led by Elgin Community College that benefits local students who are in need of necessary school supplies.

DuPage Pads (dupagepads.org) has the solution to end homelessness with housing coupled with support services and employment which leads to improved health and economic sustainability.

Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org) works with 800 community food pantries and feeding programs across 13 counties to solve hunger in northern Illinois by providing nutritious food to more than 71,000 people at risk of hunger each week. Volunteers can assist at one of their three centers including their west suburban location in Geneva.

Family Shelter Service (familyshelterservice.org), founded in 1976 and located in nearby Wheaton, transforms lives by offering help and hope to those affected by domestic violence.

Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers (recovergateway.org) have provided the answers that individuals and their families need about drug and alcohol treatment. The organization has several treatment centers throughout Illinois, including nearby Aurora.

“Since the franchise’s inaugural season in 1991 and continuing through our upcoming 25th anniversary season, the Cougars’ organization has strived to be the best possible neighbor by giving back to the community in many ways,” said Cougars Vice President/General Manager Curtis Haug.

“Through these types of initiatives, fans can see how deep our commitment is as an organization towards helping others in need,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich.

Added Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich: “We are reminded more than ever when these milestone seasons occur, that the Cougars organization is aware of how much support that has been shown to us over the years and how critically important it is to give back.”

For more information on the Kane County Cougars and the organization’s upcoming 25th anniversary season which begins on April 9, fans can visit kccougars.com. Fans are also encouraged to ‘like’ the Cougars on Facebook while following the team via Twitter and Instagram at kccougars.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kane County Cougars. Click here to view the original story.

Sea Dogs to Hold Food Drive

PortlandSeaDogs_2015-01-12

Trade Your Canned-Goods for Tickets When You Make a Ticket Purchase

Portland-Sea-DogsThe Portland Sea Dogs, in partnership with the Maine’s Credit Unions, will hold their 15th annual Food Drive which will run from now through Friday, January 30th. All the collected food items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

As in the past, this year’s food drive will be “Buy One, Bring One, Get One.” For every ticket purchased and every donated food item you bring, you will receive a free Sea Dogs ticket to the same game. For example, if you buy three tickets to the June 18th game and bring in three food items, you will receive three additional complimentary tickets of equal or lesser value to the June 18th game. The offer is good for Box Seats, Reserved, General Admission, and Pavilion seating; subject to availability.

Good-Shepherd-Food-BankFans may take advantage of this offer by bringing their non-perishable food items to the Hadlock Field Box Office. The Sea Dogs Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Tickets for the Eastern League All-Star Game are excluded from this offer.

Each year the Sea Dogs have been able to donate hundreds of food items to the Good Shepherd Food Bank thanks to the generosity of Sea Dogs’ fans.

The Sea Dogs open the 2015 season on Thursday, April 9th at 6:00 PM at Hadlock Field against the Reading Fightin Phils. Tickets for the 2015 season and the Eastern League All-Star Game are now on sale. Book your nine inning vacation by calling the Sea Dogs ticket office at 207-879-9500 or order online at www.seadogs.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Portland Sea Dogs. Click here to view the original story.

 

G-Braves Award November Grant to Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry

Organization receives $1,000 “Thanksgiving” themed grant

Gwinnett Braves_2014-12-15

Gwinnett BravesThe Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipient of their $1,000 grant for the month of November. Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry, Inc. has been awarded the “Thanksgiving” themed grant, aimed at funding an organization that works to end hunger.

Meat can be a difficult and costly item for food banks and feeding ministries to obtain. Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) is an outreach ministry that seeks to transform the renewable resource of deer and other wild game into food for the hungry through locally established chapters. For the past eight years, the North Georgia Foothills FHFH Chapter has provided over 5,000 pounds of venison to local food-needy groups.

Farmers-and-Hunters-Feeding-the-HungryThe $1,000 grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves helped the North Georgia Foothills FHFH Chapter pay for the processing costs of donated deer. On average, it costs around $55 to cut, package and distribute one deer to local food banks. Funds may also be used toward promoting the option of deer donation to the local farming and hunting community through printed, web and broadcast media.

“We are truly blessed to have the Gwinnett Braves partner with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry to provide assistance to our food ministry,” said Joe Schuster, President of the FHFH Georgia Foothills Chapter. “FHFH raises funds from sponsors like the G-Braves to process protein enriched venison donated by local hunters which is then directed to the food needy. The Abba House of Cumming, GA, a ministry focused on helping women break free from addiction and abuse, was the recipient of our harvest this year.”

About Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry, Inc.:  Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry is a 501c(3) non-profit organization incorporated in the State of Maryland. The organization is comprised of a main office in Hagerstown, MD and 120 local coordinators serving in 24 different states. FHFH includes a network of hunters, farmers, ranchers, butchers, food banks, ministries and financial supporters working together to provide meat to the hungry among us. For more information or to make a donation, visit FHFH.org.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply for future grants, call Community Relations Coordinator Alison Atkins at 678-277-0346 or email Alison.Atkins@braves.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Gwinnett Braves. Click here to view the original story.

Rock Cats Extend Thanks to Local Community with Annual Thanksgiving Food Donations

Baseball Club Will Again Warm Holiday for Local Families

New-Britain-Rock-CatsThe New Britain Rock Cats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, will once again donate non-perishable food items – along with Thanksgiving turkeys and Holiday food baskets – to local families who might otherwise go without during this great American holiday.  The Presentation will take place today, November 25 at 4:30 PM at The Friendship Center (85 Arch Street) in New Britain.  All media is welcome to the event.

This is the 15th consecutive year that the Rock Cats will make such donations to assist their neighbors in need.

Friendship-Service-CenterThe Rock Cats Foundation recently hosted its annual World Series Party at New Britain Stadium and collected from season ticket holders and sponsors, non-perishable food items which will be donated to The Friendship Center, the locally-based non-profit that provides both a home and related community supports for homeless and otherwise disadvantaged persons living in greater New Britain. The Center also works with many families who have moved out of their shelter and are seeking to live independently in the community.

The Rock Cats are pleased to be partnering with Stew Leonard’s of Newington and Trader Joe’s to provide Thanksgiving food baskets to families served by the Friendship Center. This year’s Thanksgiving baskets – which will contain a turkey, stuffing, and other assorted food items necessary to prepare the traditional dinner – will be distributed to families who The Friendship Center is transitioning out of their shelter and into independent community living arrangements.

“We are so thankful to help bring the spirit of the holiday to local families in need,” Rock Cats General Manager Tim Restall said.  “Our annual Thanksgiving Dinner deliveries are made possible only by our tremendous fans and local businesses that support the Rock Cats Foundation each year.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Britain Rock Cats. Click here to view the original story.