The COVID-19 pandemic has left many across the country without work, including stadium employees for pro sports teams. Fortunately, the New York Yankees and New York City Football Club announced they are partnering up to provide support for their day-of-game employees during the ongoing crisis.
Both teams announced on Thursday the creation of a $1.4 million COVID-19 distress fund that will provide assistance for eligible full-time and part-time staff on game days who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement, the Yankees said the grant fund will help ease the burden many are experiencing during the pandemic regarding expenses for food, medical care, shelter and other necessities. The team also announced it has already begun notifying eligible employees about the application process, which is now open.
Many athletes and teams have stepped up to provide support to those in need during this unprecedented time. Among them, Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa donated $500,000 in medical equipment to Houston’s hospitals. Stars Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward donated a combined $325K to help local charities.
Each MLB team also agreed to pledge $1 million towards providing support for ballpark employees.
While the worsening pandemic makes a 2020 season more unlikely, it’s great to see so many across baseball doing what they can to help.