Jonny Gomes starts fund to aid California fire victims
Former Red Sox outfielder Jonny Gomes is hoping to raise $1 million to aid Northern California, where deadly wildfires that have killed at least 21 people, destroyed more than 3,500 buildings, and battered the region’s wine-growing industry continue to spread.
Gomes, who was born in Petaluma, Calif., and attended Casa Grande High School, started The Jonny Gomes 707 Relief Fund on Wednesday.
“I’ve played professional baseball around the globe but the 707 area code of Northern California is my home,’’ Gomes wrote on GoFundMe. “My friends are there. My family is there. I grew up playing ball in the fields and streets of Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sonoma, Napa and beyond. That’s why you see “707’’ proudly displayed on my cleats. These people are my neighbors!’’
“Now I need you to help me give back to the thousands affected by this horrific catastrophe. Kids are without homes and schools. People have nothing but the clothes on their back. My hometown is a wasteland of ash and rubble. You and I are going to change that!’’
“The residents of these affected communities don’t need a home run from us – they need a GRAND SLAM! Give now and I will work with the people and organizations in the area to ensure that we are bringing home a win. When I identify a need I will allocate your donation swiftly, ethically and honestly. Let’s do this!’’
Gomes also recorded a message pleading for help.
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Gomes told the San Francisco Chronicle that he is shipping his 2 1/2-ton M35 military truck to his hometown, where he plans on helping to clear roadways and watch out for looters.
Mike Napoli, the first baseman on the 2013 Red Sox team whose beard was even more impressive than Gomes’s, tweeted his support of his former teammate.
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