Players give $250,000 to support Philippines

NEW YORK -- Major League Baseball players announced that they have designated $250,000 in grants to help fund the efforts of non-profits working to help the Philippines recover and rebuild from the devastating effects of Typhoon Haiyan.

"On behalf of all Major Leaguers, I'd like to first let the people in the Philippines know that our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time. We look forward to providing necessary and important funding to not-for-profits engaged in long-term assistance in the Philippines," said Curtis Granderson, a trustee of the Players Trust. "Natural disasters can happen anywhere and at anytime, bringing with them abrupt life-threatening and life-altering changes.   Through the Players Trust, all Major Leaguers are committed to providing aid and awareness in these areas, and we encourage others to do the same."

The Players Trust, through its Disaster Relief programming efforts, has contributed more than $3 million to over 20 non-for-profits to support recovery and rebuilding efforts in the wake of disasters in the U.S., Haiti and Japan. The players' collective focus is to provide funds and awareness in these areas long after the initial contributions stop and the spotlight fades. Through past experiences, the players understand that the needs of the Filipino people will far outlast the initial response and support.