Strikeouts For Troops is a nationalnon-profit organization founded in 2005 byBarry Zito to help injured US Troops and their families by providing 'the comforts of home' as they undergo treatment for injuries. Zito started the program after visiting a military hospital as a way to lift spirits and improve morale.[1]
The program is supported by over 100MLB players, coaches, managers, athletes from other sports, corporate sponsors, and fans. ParticipatingMLB pitchers donate a certain amount of money depending on how manystrikeouts they record in each season. Other players similarly donate varying amounts for achieving certain on-field goals.[2]
In 2010, Strikeouts For Troops garnered a total of $2 million, with these funds being allocated towards various needs. These needs included covering the expenses of flights and lodging for the families of service members, procuring adaptive equipment to facilitate the lives of wounded warriors, and providing financial support to the Fort Hood Gold Star Family Support Center, to name a few.[3]
