MLB, Mariners, union give $225K to mudslide relief
Major League Baseball, the Seattle Mariners and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced Wednesday they will make a donation of $225,000 to assist with the recovery efforts in the wake of the mudslide that claimed the lives of more than two dozen people in Oso, Wash.
The donation will be made to the American Red Cross Washington Landslide Relief Fund, and it will be aimed at aiding the recovery effort in Snohomish County. Oso is located about 60 miles from Seattle, and the mudslide across State Road 530 killed more than 25 people and left many missing.
Howard Lincoln, chairman and chief executive officer of the Mariners, issued a statement Wednesday.
"The scope of this tragedy is almost too big to comprehend," said Lincoln. "Our entire community is grieving for those whose lives have been affected by the mudslide. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Oso, Wash., in this difficult time."
Volunteers for the Red Cross will be collecting public donations outside the gates of Safeco Field on Tuesday, April 8, when the Mariners play their home opener against the Los Angeles Angels.
People who aren't in Seattle can chip in to the recovery effort. The Red Cross is accepting donations at RedCross.org, and citizens can also text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10.
"Major League Baseball extends its deepest condolences to everyone impacted by this tragedy," said Commissioner Bud Selig in an official statement. "We stand alongside the Seattle Mariners in offering our game's unwavering support to the Oso community during this time of need."
Tony Clark, executive director of the MLBPA, also issued a statement about the relief efforts.
"On behalf of the Players, in general, and Mariners players, in particular, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the families, friends and neighbors of those affected by this devastating mudslide," said Clark. "We also commend the efforts of the first responders, volunteers and others, for their tireless efforts in assisting with the area's relief and recovery efforts."