SE MI chapter thanks MLB star Ordonez for $100K donation to support relief efforts

DETROIT—Today in a heartfelt showing of appreciation for his generosity, the Southeastern Michigan chapter of the American Red Cross publicly thanked Detroit Tigers outfielder Magglio Ordonez for his $100,000 contribution supporting the American Red Cross relief and recovery efforts in Haiti.

As one of Michigan’s most renowned athletes, Ordonez’s generous gift was lauded by the Southeastern Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross as they continue to ask for local support for what will be a long-term relief effort.

“Magglio not only wields a big bat on the field, but also when it comes to supporting humanitarian causes,” said Jim Laverty, CEO of the Southeastern Michigan Chapter. “We are extremely grateful for his generosity and his donation will certainly help in providing ongoing relief to those on the ground in Haiti.”

Since January 12, the American Red Cross remains as one of the lead humanitarian organizations in Port-au-Prince helping to provide medical aid, food, shelter and water to thousands of Haitians everyday. To date, the Red Cross has provided daily emergency relief to hundreds of thousands in Haiti. In addition, the organization has:

• Produced more than 1.2 million liters of water daily for more than 300,000 people
• Provided more than 1 million water purifiers for people to clean and carry water
• Distributed food and relief items (blankets, hygiene kits, water containers, laundry soap and mosquito nets) to more than 250,000 people

The Red Cross continues to make progress each day, however due to the many complexities of this disaster and the extraordinary needs of the Haitian people, officials estimate that the emergency relief phase could last for up to 12 months.

People can still donate in support of the relief effort in Haiti at www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS. Mobile donors can text “HAITI” to 90999 to make a $10 contribution. Red Cross officials have estimated that at least 91 cents of every dollar goes towards relief and recovery efforts for this disaster.

A $10 donation can provide a family with two water cans to store clean drinking water, basic first aid supplies or a blanket.

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Contact Howard Hughey
313-743-3527