UMMS stands with city officials to support tornado victims 
City fundraising efforts include Worcester Tornadoes baseball event and radio broadcasts
By Kristen O’Reilly and Bryan Goodchild
UMass Medical School Communications | June 8, 2011 |
UMass Medical School and UMass Memorial Health Care are standing with Worcester city officials to support the victims of the devastating tornadoes that hit Western Massachusetts last week. Organized by the city of Worcester and involving other members of the city’s education, business and media communities, the fundraising initiative involves a partnership with the Worcester Tornadoes baseball team, which will donate the 100 percent of the ticket sales for the Tornadoes game on Saturday, June 18, to the American Red Cross.
“It is impossible to see the devastation and loss brought about by last week’s tornadoes without wanting to help,” said Chancellor Michael F. Collins. “At times like these, we are reminded of how deeply entwined we are in the towns and communities of Massachusetts, and how a disaster like this touches us all.”
photo by Bryan Goodchild
Chancellor Michael F. Collins stands with other city, business and educational leaders at a press conference announcing a citywide fundraising effort to help victims of the tornadoes in Western Massachusetts. |
“The people of Central and Western Massachusetts need our help and we are proud to partner with city and business leaders in this effort,” said John O'Brien, president and CEO of UMass Memorial Health Care. “Community support is the foundation of the missions of UMass Memorial Health Care and UMass Medical School and is ingrained in the work we do. Additionally, our Employee Assistance Program and a relief fund are helping many of our own employees here in Worcester and at Wing Memorial Hospital, who have been deeply affected by these tornadoes.”
Other activities include a benefit radio broadcast that begins on Friday, June 17, at 5:30 a.m. on WTAG/WSRS, WCRN and WXLO and continues all day with programming dedicated to bringing attention to the stories of the tragedy and devastation, and details about donating to the American Red Cross.
“While visiting Central and Western Massachusetts communities following the devastating tornadoes, the governor and I witnessed first-hand the incredible work of public safety officials and first responders,” said Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray. “Now is the time for all of us to come together, and work side by side to help individuals, families, neighborhoods and businesses impacted by the storm to recover.”
“The people of Worcester are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the recent tornadoes,” said Worcester Mayor Joseph C. O’Brien. “Having suffered a similar tragedy in our past, we are seeking to find ways to help our neighbors in Central and Western Massachusetts. We encourage all our citizens to participate in this partnership.
“I applaud City Manager O’Brien for his leadership in this noble effort,” said Chancellor Collins. “We at UMass Medical School and UMass Memorial Health Care are eager to stand with the city manager and offer assistance.”
Tickets for the 7:05 p.m. Tornadoes game against the Quebec Capitales are $15 and will include a complimentary Tornadoes baseball hat. Raffles and other fundraising activities will take place throughout the event. The Tornadoes mascot Twister and Finz of the Worcester Sharks will be greeting guests. The event will include live bands on the concourse, children’s games, Worcester Sharks’ shoot-out, clowns, face-painters and other activities for children. Post-game fireworks will complete the evening.