San Jose Giants to Honor First Responders and Aid Flood Victims
April 19, 2017 - California League (CalL1)
San Jose Giants News Release
San Jose, CA- The San Jose Giants in conjunction with the city of San Jose and Silicon Valley Community Foundation are offering a way for the community to aid in providing relief for victims impacted by the recent flooding in San Jose. Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes because of unprecedented rainfall this month and subsequent severe flooding. Over 400 people have been rescued via boat as water levels reached several feet deep. Complete assessment of damage has yet to be determined, however it is certain that many families will need aid and relief in the weeks and months ahead.
The San Jose Giants are calling for community support and generous contributions for the recent town, the organization has targeted this Wednesday, April 19, 2017 as the first #WeCareWednesday to honor local first responders and help victims of the devastating floods that struck the San Jose community in February. The club will commend the heroic action of the San Jose Fire Department's Urban Search and Rescue team and others with a special pregame ceremony. Furthermore, the Giants are initiating a "Round Up" opportunity for fans to make donations that will go directly to flood victims and will be distributing complimentary tickets to residents impacted by the flooding.
During the week of February 20, 2017, San Jose experienced unprecedented rainfall and subsequent severe flooding which filled the Almaden Reservoir beyond its maximum capacity. As a result, 14,000 people had to be evacuated from their homes. Included in this total were 350 men, women, and children that the San Jose Fire Department Urban Search and Rescue rescued on specialized water vessels. The team worked tirelessly, non-stop for 36 hours and were critical in the prevention of any loss of life. For their brave efforts, the San Jose Fire Department will be honored with a pregame ceremony.
Although first responders were able to save lives and help mitigate serious threats, local residents were still afflicted with major damages. Given the nature of the situation, the San Jose Giants have stepped up to alleviate some of the pain incurred by the victims. The organization instituted a "Round Up" opportunity for the entire opening homestand for fans to round up on their purchases to an even dollar amount with the difference being donated directly to the victims. The "Round Up" fund raiser continues Wednesday. Our Giants are also offering complimentary tickets to all individuals directly impacted by the floods. Fans can show proof of their zip-code or residence to receive entrance into Municipal Stadium free of charge.
"The San Jose Giants deeply empathize with the people in our town who were impacted by the floods. We view it as our team's privilege to lend a helping hand to members of our community and hope that our initiatives alleviate some of hurt," said Senior Vice President of Communications and Chief Marketing Officer, Juliana Paoli. "We are also incredibly grateful for the swift and brave action of the San Jose Fire Department and are humbled to have the opportunity to honor San Jose first responders before the game."
Those who wish to make donations to the flood relief can do so directly through the Silicon Valley Community Foundation: San Jose Flood Relief Fund.
As a part of We Care Wednesdays, the San Jose Giants are also thrilled to welcome to the ballpark, Rob Mendez and Sean Finnerty. Mendez, who was born without limbs, and Finnerty share a special bond and have made it their goal to live life to the fullest. Their amazing friendship and enthusiasm for life is an inspiration to many. Ridgeway Electric of Burlingame is sponsoring a Park Packer on August 5 that will benefit Rob and Finn's Climb to the Top. Rob and Finn's Climb to the Top GoFundMe page can be visited by clicking here.
Wednesday features a doubleheader as the San Jose Giants and Visalia Rawhide make up Monday's rained out game. The first matchup is slated to start at 5:30 PM with the second game to follow the conclusion of the first. Gates will open at 4:30 PM and tickets holders will have access to both games. Per MiLB regulations, each contest will be a 7-inning affair. San Francisco Giant, Michael Morse and major leaguer, Bryan Morris are anticipated to be with the club for the doubleheader as they continue their rehab assignments. For more information on tickets, visit sjgiants.com or call 408.297.1435.
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