Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation pledges additional $100,000 to victims of Yarnell fire
After matching the first six-figure donation from fans in just four days, team's charitable arm offers another $100,000 match
It took just four days for fans to donate more than $100,000 to victims of the Yarnell fire -- a figure matched by the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation -- so the D-backs' charitable arm announced today it would match another $100,000 for contributions made through dbacks.com/19.
"The generosity of our fans over the past four days has been truly inspirational," said D-backs President & CEO Derrick Hall. "Our fans keep asking how they can help the families of Yarnell and Prescott and we thought it was only appropriate given our social responsibility to the community to continue to match their contributions for another $100,000."
Fans will be encouraged throughout the homestand to donate online at dbacks.com/19 in support of the 100 Club of Arizona, American Red Cross, Prescott Firefighter Charities and other charities that will assist the families and communities. Those who donate $19 or more will be entered for a chance to win a team-signed home white jersey with the name "Yarnell" and No. 19.
The first $100,000 in donations and subsequent match by the Foundation was reached during the final hour of the D-backs' 15-inning victory over the Mets yesterday. Tonight, the team begins a 10-game homestand and fans have several opportunities to assist their fellow community members.
Beginning today through July 14, the D-backs are auctioning off the newly created game-worn and autographed black Arizona tribute jerseys from this weekend and signed nameplates from the D-backs Clubhouse online at dbacks.com/auctions. The jerseys include a memorial patch over the heart with the No. 19.
Proceeds from this weekend's 50/50 Raffle, supported by Western Refining, will also benefit the families of the tragedy.
Prior to tonight's game, the D-backs will honor first responders and military with a special pregame ceremony on the field beginning at 6 p.m. The on-field ceremonies include a moment of silence and photo montage in memory of the 19 firefighters followed by "Amazing Grace" performed by the Arizona Fire Service Bagpipe and Drum Band, which includes more than 45 firefighters from communities all over the state. The D-backs have also partnered with Budweiser to recognize not only our military service members but also all first responders during "Cheers to the Heroes" at the end of the second inning at every D-backs home game.
The D-backs are offering 50 percent off ticket prices for all military active duty, reserve, retired and veterans, as well as active and retired fire and police personnel with a valid ID throughout the entire weekend series.