Three months following the tragedy that transpired in Uvalde, the Houston Astros were able to bring a little light into the lives of those most affected, hosting 500 Uvalde residents for Uvalde Strong Day during its game against the Oakland Athletics.
“Today, we welcomed the community of Uvalde to MMP for Uvalde Strong Day,” the baseball team wrote in a Twitter post.
Fans can also donate online. All donations through the end of the day go to the Uvalde Strong initiatives.
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— Houston Astros (@astros) August 14, 2022
After distributing around 3,000 free tickets to the public of Uvalde, the organization bussed 500 residents in 10 charter buses some 280 miles from the town to Minute Maid Park in Houston.
“We all can relate to the tough time they’ve been through, so this is a little distraction and give a little something back,” said Astros owner Jim Crane. “This is what the Astros are about.”
Before the game began, Crane joined by Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Lance McCullers Jr., and manager, Dusty Baker had a few messages for the group.
“We’re going to go out there and try to (get) another World Series ring for you guys,” said Altuve to big applause.
“I’m glad you’re here, and I’ve got nothing but love for you. The whole world was shaken … I’m glad you’re here,” Baker said. “Hopefully it can help the healing process … (but) the main thing is to have a good time today, and I know you’re going to be loud.”
“It means the world to us, that’s why we come out and play so hard every day, for the fans and each other,” Bregman said. “We’ve had a great start to the season, and hopefully we can bring y’all a World Series championship this year.”
Today, we welcomed the community of Uvalde to MMP for Uvalde Strong Day.
We are committed to the continued healing of the Uvalde community through the game of baseball. During the game, fans can purchase Uvalde Strong t-shirts, with all proceeds going to Uvalde Strong efforts. pic.twitter.com/vyRVsy6sWF
— Houston Astros (@astros) August 14, 2022
After the Uvaldians asked the players a few questions – and Altuve himself hanging out a little longer with a small group of them – they were allowed to walk along the field.
“From the time they get on the buses in Uvalde to the time they get back to Uvalde (on Sunday) night, we wanted them to know we love them and support them,” said Paula Harris, the Astros’ senior vice president of community affairs. “What happened was horrific, and if we can just put some smiles on a couple of those faces for a Sunday of baseball … we’re about that.”