Bandits, Airport join forces to aid Haiti

To aid the local Haitian Relief effort, the River Bandits have teamed up with the Quad City International Airport to raise funds for the Quad Cities American Red Cross in their efforts to help those devastated by the recent earthquakes in Haiti.

"The recent earthquake was the worst natural disaster to hit that country in more than 200 years," said team owner Dave Heller. "The news and pictures out of Haiti are simply heartbreaking. At least 100,000 dead. And tens of thousands more are injured or missing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Haiti and to the Haitian Diaspora community residing here in the Quad Cities and around the world. We are determined to help, and we are glad to be working with the Airport and the Red Cross on this critical relief effort. Working together, we can make a difference."

Fans who contribute a donation of $10 or more will receive a voucher for a free ticket to any Bandits home game in April and will be entered into a drawing to win a $500 AirTran Airways gift voucher, courtesy of the Quad City International Airport. Donations can be made at the River Bandits front office at Modern Woodmen Park Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The River Bandits will be accepting donations until March 1.

"It has been our mission since we began operating this franchise to do our part to help those in need," said River Bandits Vice President and General Manager Kirk Goodman. "This is the perfect way to help our local Red Cross chapter get much-needed help to the people of Haiti."

The Bandits have already raised $250 dollars for the cause during the Cardinals Caravan by auctioning off a bat signed by the Cardinals' 2009 first-round Draft pick, Shelby Miller, and from additional donations made by the fans who attended the Caravan.

"The American Red Cross is grateful for the support of the River Bandits and Quad City International Airport to support those affected by the devastating earthquake in Haiti," said American Red Cross Director of Communications Leslie Anthony. "We know this is going to be a very long-term relief effort and we rely on support from our communities to enable the Red Cross to bring aid to thousands in need. Organizations like the River Bandits and QC Airport make our work possible."

All money raised will be donated to the Quad Cities American Red Cross to contribute to their Haitian Relief. This effort between the River Bandits and the Quad City International Airport is a continuation of the team's charitable efforts, which raised nearly $150,000 for local causes in 2009. Those who cannot make it to the event are encouraged to visit the Red Cross's web site and donate on-line at qcredcross.org.