OAKLAND -- More than 5,000 youth baseball players will receive Oakland A's jerseys and baseball caps for the upcoming Little League season, thanks to the A's Community Fund, Black Bear Diner and a posthumous donation from longtime A's season ticket holder Elizabeth Ruchenski.
The A's Youth Uniform Program presented by Black Bear Diner will benefit deserving Bay Area youth leagues, including the Oakland Cal Ripken - Babe Ruth Little League and teams from Hayward, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Tennyson, and Ashland Little Leagues. Leagues will receive a variety of uniform styles and games will now pit A's against A's. To honor Ms. Ruchenski's legacy, all of the uniforms provided through the A's Youth Uniform Program will have the initials "E.R." displayed on the sleeve.
"This program allows us to promote baseball across the East Bay and create a sense of pride among ballplayers for their hometown team," said A's President Michael Crowley. "Because of the generous donation from Ms. Ruchenski and our corporate partner Black Bear Diner, this program also helps alleviate a financial burden for many communities."
"This program will allow many children the chance to participate in baseball who may not otherwise be able to afford it," said Louie Butler, president of the Oakland Cal Ripken - Babe Ruth Baseball League. "We are beyond grateful to the A's for their commitment to giving back to our community."
"Black Bear Diner is proud to support the Oakland A's Community Fund and its youth uniform program," states Bruce Dean, CEO, Black Bear Diner. "This is an important program that supports our core values of community and family."
More than 800 jerseys were distributed today to the Oakland Cal Ripken - Babe Ruth Baseball League in a ceremony at O.co. Coliseum. Video and still images from today's ceremony is available for download at the A's Virtual Press Box at pressbox.athletics.com.
About the A's Community Fund
The Oakland A's Community Fund supports charitable organizations that improve the quality of life for people throughout the Bay Area. The fund believes in the need to invest in the community's future by focusing on improving educational programs, aiding the underprivileged, assisting in crime and drug prevention, promoting health awareness, and championing children and senior welfare. Since its inception, the A's charitable arm has contributed more than $19.2 million to support local community programs and initiatives. For more information on the A's Community Fund, please visit athletics.com/community.
About Black Bear Diner
Founded in Mt. Shasta, California in 1995, Black Bear Diner was born from a desire to bring home-style comfort food classics and personal service back to the dining experience. The award-winning franchise has grown to 75 locations in eight western states, and is recognized as one of the smartest growing brands. For a full menu and additional information, please visit blackbeardiner.com.