MIAMI — The Miami Marlins announced a $100,000 donation to Global Empowerment Mission and a broader relief campaign involving corporate sponsors and fans to support communities devastated by earthquakes in Venezuela.
“One of the strengths of the South Florida community is how we come together during times of need,” Marlins chairman, principal owner and control person Bruce Sherman said. “We are proud to support relief efforts in Venezuela through our financial donation while working alongside our partners, community organizations and fans to provide essential supplies and additional aid.”
Four key corporate sponsors have already contributed. LoanDepot made a monetary donation to Global Empowerment Mission. Goya Foods donated 20,000 pounds of food. Neaū water provided four pallets of water. Kellanova contributed food products across its various brands.
Fans attending the July 7-9 series against the Mariners at loanDepot park will be able to donate requested relief items at collection boxes located at the Home Plate Entrance, adjacent to the intersection of NW 6 St. and NW 16 Ave. The club is also offering a specially priced $5 ticket through a designated offer at Marlins.com/WeLoveVenezuela for fans who bring a requested donation item to the game. For every qualifying ticket purchased, the Marlins will make a $5 donation to the We Love Venezuela Foundation. All three games will feature the Marlins 50/50 Raffle, with proceeds benefitting the We Love Venezuela Foundation.
The relief effort carries personal weight inside the clubhouse. Javier Sanoja, the club’s lone Venezuelan-born ballplayer and a hero in the World Baseball Classic final, has been part of the team’s response. Last Friday, the Marlins began wearing VZ stitched in blue lettering on the side of their caps in a show of solidarity.
The fan collection drive and ticket offer run through the final game of the Mariners series on July 9 at loanDepot park.