Miracle present checks for Irma relief

FORT MYERS, Fla. - In the past few weeks, the Fort Myers Miracle completed check presentations to eight charities across the Southwest Florida community that have played a major role in Hurricane Irma relief efforts.
This was made possible by a $13,000 donation from MiLB Charities. The Miracle then allocated the money to the following organizations: Lee County Schools, Harry Chapin Food Bank, Midwest Food Bank, Southwest Florida Community Foundation, Goodwill, New Horizons of Southwest Florida, Naples Zoo, and Everglades Wonder Gardens.
"We selected these organizations because of their incredible commitment to this community after the devastation of Hurricane Irma," Miracle owner Jason Hochberg said. "As the community's baseball team, we felt this was the least we could do to thank them for their efforts."
The check presentations included leaders from all the organizations, Miracle mascot Sway, and representatives from the Miracle front office.
"As a non-for profit all funds are deeply appreciated," Karl Steidinger, Director of Operations for Midwest Food Bank said. "The money will help us continue both our relief effort in the aftermath of Irma and our mission to alleviate hunger in southwest Florida. We are grateful for organizations like the Fort Myers Miracle that share in our passion to help others in our communities. Together we will make a difference our community and beyond!"
The Minnesota Twins, the parent club of the Miracle, also pitched in to help with Irma relief. They partnered with the Boston Red Sox to contribute $200,000 to the Southwest Florida Community Foundation. Miracle ownership and fans have also donated over $20,000 to various charities for Irma relief.  
"It was great to see the entire community come together in the wake of the worst storm to hit this area in a long time," Miracle general manager Chris Peters said. "The aftermath of Irma was tough, but the worst brought out the best in Southwest Florida and helped speed up the recovery process. We are happy to have helped and our hats go off to these great organizations.
The Miracle will host an Irma Recovery/First Responders night at the CenturyLink Sports Complex in April. Opening Night is April 5, when the Miracle host the Charlotte Stone Crabs.   
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