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More than 29,000 non-law enforcement volunteers assisted Joplin in the aftermath of the May 22 tornado.
Now, two more organizations are lending a hand. Both the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals have teamed up for a Joplin relief fundraising effort, “Teams Unite for Joplin.” Gov. Jay Nixon announced the teams’ initiative during a June 15 press conference at the Kansas City Fire Department Station 35.
During their three-game I-70 series June 17-19, Royals and Cardinals players sported “Teams Unite for Joplin” commemorative jersey patches and held multiple activities to raise funds for Joplin. Fans could purchase commemorative patches for $10 each with all proceeds going toward the Joplin relief effort. The baseball teams later raffled off their commemorative jerseys and auctioned off items like baseballs, used game bases, a home plate signed by players, among other items. Donations were also collected at stadium gates. All proceeds will go toward Joplin.
“These efforts will have an immediate and powerful impact,” Nixon said of Teams Unite for Joplin.
Donations are still being accepted. Visit http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com and click on the Community/Foundation tab.
Both Nixon and Kansas City Mayor Sly James thanked the baseball teams and also thanked the law enforcement and emergency personnel who responded to Joplin during the first few days of the tornado aftermath.
Eight hours after the tornado struck, Kansas City law enforcement and emergency personnel were on their way to Joplin, James said.
“I want to think each of you for running to the aid of the City of Joplin. More citizens are alive because of what you did,” he said.
During the search and rescue effort, 17 people were found alive, Nixon said. Through pounding rain and lightning, search and rescue teams worked diligently, he said.
“Your leadership up here was tremendously appreciated,” Nixon said. Continuing with his thanks, Nixon voiced gratitude for the faith-based organizations that assisted in meeting the physical needs of Joplin residents.
“Joplin needs to be rebuilt and we will find the resources to do it,” Nixon said.
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