Louie's Holiday Hope Project Returns

The Bowie Baysox are pleased to announce that Louie's Holiday Hope Project returns to brighten the holiday season for local families in need this year. The program began in 2007 and touched 11 families with 35 children last year. This year, the team is proud to partner with Prince George's County Fire/EMS department, the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Youth and Family Services to help as many families as possible.

Baysox General Manager Brian Shallcross notes how the community works together on the program. "Every year Baysox fans respond really well to the program," Shallcross said. "From letting us know which local families could use some help to donating toys and other items, the community helps us make the holidays a little brighter for local families."

Prince George's County Fire Chief Eugene A. Jones looks forward to working with the Baysox on the project again this year. "The career and volunteer members of the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department are happy to once again partner with the Bowie Baysox for the Holiday Hope Project," Jones said. "The project is an extremely worthwhile charitable effort and we will do our very best to continue with the success it has enjoyed over the past several years."

Bowie Deputy Police Chief John Nesky is also excited for the program. "We are happy to participate in such a worthwhile program," Neksy said. "The program ensures everyone has the chance to enjoy the holiday season."

To ensure that the program reaches as many families as possible, the Baysox welcome help from their fans. Fans can nominate families that need assistance by e-mailing the Baysox lovable mascot Louie at [email protected]. Submissions should include the family's name, situation and contact information. The team will not be able to help everyone that is nominated, but will consider multiple options to help several families. A Baysox staff member may contact the submitter for additional details or clarification, but all submissions remain confidential. Entries must be received by Monday, Dec. 6, at 5 p.m.

Fans can donate toys, books and non-perishable food items to the program by dropping them off at Prince George's Stadium or the Northview Community Fire/EMS Station at 14901 Health Center Drive in Bowie, Md.

The Baysox encourage other local groups and organizations to participate in Louie's Holiday Hope Project. Local organizations that would like to make a contribution to the program can e-mail Louie at [email protected] or call the front office at (301) 805-6000.

The Baysox 2010 campaign has come to an end. The Baysox open the 2011 season on the road in Harrisburg Thursday, April 7. They play their first game at Prince George's Stadium Thursday, April 14, at 7:05 p.m. Baysox holiday ticket packages make a great gift and are now available. Click HERE for more information on the holiday package.