The Baltimore Ravens and Baltimore Orioles have joined forces to contribute $10 million to a fund aimed at providing support to those affected by the unfortunate collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the city.
The Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund, which offers assistance to families, port workers, small businesses, first responders, and the affected communities following the recent disaster, received significant contributions from both the National Football League and Major League Baseball teams. Each league contributed a substantial amount of $5 million towards the fund.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said in a joint statement made on Friday, “We are grateful to our first responders for their bravery and tireless labor. The Ravens are thrilled to assist in the recovery efforts for the Francis Scott Key Bridge, as well as for affected Maryland families and businesses. We are confident that Baltimore and Maryland will continue to demonstrate remarkable spirit and courage during this time of great need.”
Six construction workers were killed when a cargo ship collided with the Baltimore bridge in the early hours of March 26, nearly collapsing the span in the Port of Baltimore. Three workers’ remains have been recovered, but three more are still missing.
“Under the leadership of Governor Wes Moore and in collaboration with the Ravens, the Orioles offer this contribution to support those who keep our city, our state, and our country in business,” David Rubenstein, the owner of the Baltimore Orioles, said.
Last week, during the third inning of the Orioles’ opening-day game against the Los Angeles Angels, the team’s owner paid tribute to emergency personnel.
According to the Baltimore Community Foundation’s website, the fund was established to ensure that Baltimoreans may safely donate money to recovery efforts.
President Joe Biden reiterated Friday his plan for the federal government to fund the entire cost of reconstructing the Key Bridge, urging Congress to authorize the effort “as soon as possible.”
