ST. PETERSBURG -- Before celebrating Venezuelan Heritage Night at Tropicana Field on Monday, the Rays announced a donation to support relief and rescue efforts to those affected by recent earthquakes in Venezuela.
The Rays Up Foundation will commit $100,000 to the nonprofit World Central Kitchen, which provides fresh meals in response to crises around the world. Founded in 2010 by chef José Andrés, World Central Kitchen partners with organizations on the frontlines to activate networks of local restaurants, food trucks and emergency kitchens -- with a priority on local ingredients to support regional economies -- to provide meals to survivors of disasters, like the earthquakes that devastated Venezuela.
“Our hearts are with the people of Venezuela as they face the devastating impact of these earthquakes,” Rays chief executive officer Ken Babby said in a statement. “At the Rays, we believe in using our platform to support communities in times of need. Through the Rays Up Foundation, we are proud to partner with World Central Kitchen in providing immediate relief and critical resources to those affected as they begin the difficult process of recovery.”
The Rays held a pregame gathering at the Rays Hall of Fame Bar and Grill for their annual Venezuelan Heritage Night on Monday, when they hosted the Yankees to begin a four-game series at Tropicana Field.
The club also allowed fans at the game to upgrade their tickets to include the Venezuelan Heritage Ticket Package for $20. The package came with an exclusive Venezuelan Heritage jersey or a Rays hat. All proceeds will benefit the World Central Kitchen’s earthquake response work in Venezuela.
Additionally, the Rays announced that fans can donate specifically to the Venezuela relief efforts through the Rays Up Foundation during this homestand, running Monday through Sunday, at RaysBaseball.com/Donate.