The Baltimore Ravens and Baltimore Orioles have both pledged $5 million each to the Baltimore Community Foundation’s Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund to support recovery efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti expressed condolences for the victims and gratitude towards the first responders for their bravery. The Orioles’ new owner, David M. Rubenstein, emphasized the resiliency of the city and offered support to those affected by the tragedy. Both teams encouraged others to donate to the fund and quickly announced their support following the March 26 incident where a vessel struck the bridge named after the writer of the national anthem.
The Orioles recognized members of the Maryland Transportation Authority for their swift response to the bridge collapse during their opening day game. Sgt. Paul Pastorek, Cpl. Jeremy Herbert, and Officer Garry Kirts were saluted in the third inning, with Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and Maryland Governor Wes Moore standing beside them. The MDTA promptly shut down the bridge to traffic upon receiving word of the approaching vessel losing steering, and first responders were deployed to the scene immediately after the ship crashed into the support pillar, causing the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River.
Governor Wes Moore is seeking $60 million in emergency funds to accelerate the reconstruction of the bridge, and the Ravens and Orioles’ donations are helping to support this cause. The Baltimore community is coming together to rally for recovery efforts as residents seek to recover from the unfortunate event. The MDTA’s quick response and the efforts of the first responders were commended by both professional sports organizations, who publicly acknowledged and supported the authorities for their actions during the crisis. The Ravens and Orioles hope that their contributions will aid in the efforts to rebuild and recover from the damage caused by the bridge collapse.
Both teams extended their support to the victims’ families, port workers, first responders, small businesses, and communities affected by the tragedy. The Ravens and Orioles emphasized the unity and spirit of Baltimore and Maryland, expressing confidence in the city’s ability to endure and overcome the challenges presented by the bridge collapse. The financial contributions made by the professional sports organizations will help to provide assistance and resources to those in need and support the reconstruction of the bridge. Mayor Brandon Scott and Governor Wes Moore stood in solidarity with the MDTA members at the Orioles’ Opening Day game, as the crowd paid tribute to their ongoing efforts in responding to the crisis. The collaboration and support from the Ravens and Orioles demonstrate the solidarity and compassion of the sports community in times of adversity.
