Washington, D.C. - D.C. United announced today that the club will partner with the American Red Cross to aid the Japan relief efforts, beginning this weekend with United’s First Kick contest with Columbus on March 19 at RFK Stadium. To raise funds for the victims of Japan’s devastating earthquake and tsunami, volunteers from the American Red Cross will be collecting donations at RFK’s Main Gate and Gate A prior to Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. kickoff with the Crew.
“Historic disasters such as this affect the entire world and can set a country back for many years,” said Community Relations Director, Aprile Pritchet. “D.C. United is proud to support the relief efforts in response to the heartbreaking earthquakes and tsunami in Japan.”
Aside from the millions that have been impacted by the devastation in Japan, recent events have hit close to home for the Black-and-Red. D.C. United Executive Chairman, Will Chang, grew up in Kobe, Japan, and he encourages United fans to do their part.
“I still have many friends and relatives living in Japan, it is heartbreaking to see what happened,” said Chang. “My thoughts and prayers are with everyone that has been affected by the devastating earthquake and tsunami.”
The Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of the National Capital Region, Linda Mathes, will be the Ceremonial Kicker for Saturday’s home opener against Columbus. We encourage fans to make a donation at the stadium or online at www.dcunited.com/japan, where contributions will be collected through July.
