Earlier this week survivors of Joplin’s EF5 tornado were visited by team members of the Springfield Cardinals — the Double-A Texas League affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.
While in Joplin with Convoy of Hope major league prospects Zack Cox, Ryan Jackson and Matt Adams encouraged families, shook hands, signed autographs and distributed Cardinal hats and coins in devastated neighborhoods.
(From left) Ryan Jackson, Zack Cox and Matt Adams survey a portion of the worst hit area in Joplin, Mo.
“The help we have received has been overwhelming,” Amy, a mother of two who lost her home, told the players as they stood in the ruins of her home. “We are thankful.”
To help Convoy of Hope with its relief and recovery work in Joplin the St. Louis and Springfield Cardinals donated $25,000 to the humanitarian relief organization on Wednesday night prior to the St. Louis Cardinals’ game against the World Champion San Francisco Giants. In addition, the Springfield Cardinals collected donations from fans at a recent home stand.
“It is times like these that we need to come together as a community,” said Matt Gifford, vice president and general manager of the Springfield Cardinals. “These are our friends and our neighbors.”
(From left) Joplin Homeowner Amy, Matt Gifford, Ryan Jackson, Matt Adams and Zack Cox stand in the ruins of Amy’s home.
