New England Patriots Charitable Foundation Teams with United Way to Help Victims of Recent Tornadoes
Multiple tornadoes swept through western and central Massachusetts on June 1, destroying buildings, tearing down homes, flipping vehicles and leaving a wake of destruction. Tens of thousands of the state’s residents were without power. The situation in Massachusetts was so bad that Gov. Deval Patrick declared a statewide state of emergency, calling up 1,000 members of the National Guard.
Communities are still stunned by the damage. The sight of flattened walls, boarded up windows, and tarps covering peeled-off roofs are a daily reminder of the need for help from services and neighbors.
The Kraft family and the New England Patriots have pledged to match up to $100,000 of donations made to United Way to help victims of the recent tornadoes. The Kraft family has partnered with United Way/Mass2-1-1 to give through the Massachusetts Statewide Disaster Relief Fund with 100% of all dollars raised, being directed towards helping those in need. The New England Patriots have a long-standing commitment to giving back to their community and charitable causes. The Foundation's primary goal is to support programs that aid the youth and families of the New England region by assisting programs that foster cultural diversity, education, family and health. The Foundation has taken special interest in youth programs that encourage education, creativity and development of character.
Beginning June 21, the public can make donations to the Massachusetts tornado relief efforts through United Way/Mass2-1-1, with each donation matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000 from the Patriots Charitable Foundation. Funds will be assigned to the Massachusetts Statewide Disaster Relief Fund, with 100 percent of all dollars raised directed towards helping those in need. Donations can be made at http://www.uwotc.org/disaster or by dialing 2-1-1.
Through the Massachusetts Statewide Disaster Relief Fund, created by the United Way of Tri-County, in cooperation with the executive board of the Massachusetts Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and through the work of Mass2-1-1, a partnership between the United Way and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to provide residents with a single telephone call center during times of emergency. 100% of all funds collected will be used to assist and coordinate for the unmet needs of those impacted by the recent tornadoes.
On Tuesday, June 21, Springfield College (263 Alden Street in Springfield) hosted a kick-off event to announce the challenge match to help those affected by the tornadoes. Following the kick off, the Patriots Alumni Club and Charitable Foundation will host its final ‘Football for YOU’ free youth clinic at Springfield College on Friday, June 24. The clinic is open to youth ages 11-14, and walk-in registration is welcome. Children will enjoy a day of football skill sessions coached by Patriots alumni, Patriots DL Ron Brace as a special guest speaker at 3:30 p.m. and a pizza party provided by Papa Gino’s. Springfield College is located at 263 Alden Street in Springfield.
Click here to make your donation today: http://www.uwotc.org/disaster
