Bassitt Family announces ‘Bassitts Pitch In’ in support of Jays Care Foundation

Photo: Toronto Blue Jays

July 18, 2023

Official Toronto Blue Jays News Release

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Chris Bassitt and his wife, Jessica, are proud to announce the Bassitts Pitch In program in support of Jays Care Foundation.

The Bassitt family has pledged to donate $10,000 (USD) each game the Blue Jays win when Chris pitches this season, retroactive to Opening Day. To date, the Bassitts have already generously committed $120,000.

Proceeds from Bassitts Pitch In support Jays Care’s RBI Summer Edition – a free sport-for-development program designed to enhance the mental and physical health of kids in under-resourced communities across Toronto. In 2023, more than 1,000 students from eight Toronto schools are participating in the program, which features inclusive baseball training, cooperative games, arts and crafts, and team building, as a complement to summer school. Jays Care has also hired and trained more than 300 youth from the community to help lead the program. Full program details are available here.

“When we joined the Blue Jays, our family immediately felt embraced by the local community and fans across the country. We are building our family in Toronto and believe strongly in giving back to the community that supports us on and off the field. Sports have an incredibly positive impact on children’s emotional and physical well-being, and we are excited to partner with Jays Care on all the amazing work they do with kids and sports.” – Chris & Jessica Bassitt, Toronto Blue Jays

“We are extremely grateful to the Bassitt family for their generous and thoughtful support. When they approached Jays Care looking to help, it was immediately clear how passionate they were about making a meaningful difference in children’s lives. This initiative will give thousands of youth living in under-resourced communities across Toronto the opportunity to participate in an inclusive and impactful program at no cost where they will have fun, gain a sense of belonging, and learn life skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Chris is a leader and a role model who exemplifies the community spirit of the Toronto Blue Jays, and we are excited to work with him and Jessica.” – Robert Witchel, Executive Director, Jays Care Foundation

Blue Jays fans are invited to ‘pitch in’ with the Bassitt family and help make a positive impact in the lives of kids across the Blue Jays community. Fans can show their support by donating at bluejays.com/bassittspitchin.