Although the earthquake that devastated the Caribbean nation of Haiti occurred over four months ago, the poor health conditions, homelessness and overall danger as a result of the disaster is still very prevalent. On Tuesday, June 8, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs minor league baseball team will hold “Haiti Relief Night” in conjunction with their 7:05 p.m. game against the Newark Bears at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, MD.
“It is important to remember that just because the horrible pictures and stories out of Haiti are no longer in the news, that the struggle there is long, ongoing and difficult,” said Blue Crabs Marketing Manager Courtney Freeland. “We felt this night was a way to bring what happened there back into consciousness and a good opportunity to donate more to the cause.”
For two hours before the game beginning at 4 p.m. in the Regency Furniture Stadium parking lot, Blue Crabs players will host a charity car wash for donations, with all proceeds going to Haiti relief funds. If at least 50 people wish to give blood, the Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the stadium that Tuesday beginning at Noon, lasting until 8 p.m. Fans wishing to donate blood should RSVP to Freeland by e-mailing cfreeland@somdbluecrabs.com or calling (301) 374-1130. The team is also asking for donations of shoes that are no longer needed, athletic or otherwise, that may be given to the needy in Haiti. Fans may bring unwanted or unneeded shoes still in good condition to the ballpark with them the evening of Tuesday, June 8, for the “Take A Walk In My Shoes” drive.
Gates for the game will open at 6 p.m., and there are a myriad of things planned including a silent auction of memorabilia items from the NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB. There will also be various other raffles throughout the concourse with all proceeds donated to Haiti relief funds. The team has also arranged several “kid-friendly” activities to get the most out of Haiti Relief Night. Parents can donate to the cause so their children may participate in the “Decorate a Cookie” station, and kids face painting. There will also be a dunk tank set up outside of the front gates, so parents and children alike can participate in a fun activity while helping this very worthy cause. Donations will be accepted at all three activities.
As another means of fundraising, this game will also feature “Runs For Relief.” Area businesses are encouraged to donate a certain amount (a 10 dollar minimum is recommended) for each run the Blue Crabs score on June 8 against Newark, with the total sum donated to the Haiti relief fund of their choice. If any business would like to take it a step further, “Home Runs For Relief” may also be added on to their total contribution. Again, an amount of the businesses’ choosing will be donated for any and all home runs the Crabs hit during the game (a 20 dollar minimum is recommended). If your business is interested in “Runs For Relief,” please e-mail cfreeland@somdbluecrabs.com or call (301) 374-1130.
For more information on all of the charitable aspects of “Haiti Relief Night” on Tuesday, June 8 against the Newark Bears, please contact Court