October 30, 2024
Season of Sharing off to huge start amid storm devastation and immense need
Categories: Season of Sharing,
Faced with widespread destruction from three back-to-back storms, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County has already received an outpouring of contributions to the annual Season of Sharing campaign that runs through late January.
Expecting an explosion of hardship among residents following hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton, three major donors have kicked off the annual Season of Sharing fundraising campaign with a combined $1.75 million in donations to the campaign.
The contributions include $1 million from The Patterson Foundation and $250,000 from the Baltimore Orioles, which also pledged an additional $250,000 in matching funds.
"In times of crisis, it's essential for us to stand together as a community," said David M. Rubenstein, principal owner of the Orioles. “We hope that this match challenge inspires our fans and community members to give generously and help provide immediate relief for those affected by Hurricane Milton."
Also, the Brian and Sheila Jellison Family Foundation has pledged a $500,000 matching grant to Season of Sharing.
"These storms have brought unimaginable challenges to our community, and we feel a deep responsibility to support both immediate recovery efforts and long-term rebuilding," said Christie Jellison Mucha.
The Patterson Foundation also will provide an additional match of $100,000 for every $500,000 raised in donations – a practice it has carried out during Season of Sharing’s nearly 25 years of existence.