Home Team Charity
By Scott Robertson

For Pittsburgh's three professional sports teams, charity begins at home - although it does not necessarily end there.

The Pirates, Penguins and Steelers are involved in charitable causes, many revolving around the holiday season. Many are devoted to children, others to providing clothing and/or food to those in need.

"We're in a position to try to help the community," said Kathy Guy, director of community and player relations for the Pirates. "The players enjoy (it), and the organizations we work with do, too. Especially the kids."

All three teams are heavily involved in Project Bundle Up, receiving considerable player participation.

"It's a great program because the kids get new winter outfits that their parents otherwise might not be able to afford," said Cindy Himes, director of community relations with the Penguins. "It's a very popular program."

Penguins' fans also can give back. The team has scheduled its annual Gift of Life Blood Drive for Dec. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mellon Arena. All registered donors receive tickets to a future Penguins' game.

The Penguins and Pirates are involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to terminally ill children. The Penguins scheduled their annual Make-A-Wish party for Dec. 4, a party where children from the program attend a team practice at Southpointe and then meet the players at Southpointe Golf Club.

The Pirates have scheduled their annual Make-A-Wish party for Dec. 14 at PNC Park. The children get a chance to meet players and participate in games and activities, including a chance to play in the batting cages at the park.

The Pirates have a holiday Christmas party set for Dec. 10 at Children's Hospital too. Children's Hospital is a favorite charity for all three teams. The Steelers also have a holiday dinner for patients there.

The Steelers participate in the Light of Life Family Assistance Program where players host a Thanksgiving dinner for women and children in the program; in the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank; and Toys for Tots, among others.