Jason Bay Bats in $100,000 As Designated Hitter for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Pittsburgh

On Thursday, June 19, 2008 Pittsburgh Pirates' Left Fielder Jason Bay reached a landmark achievement as the designated hitter for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Pittsburgh.

For the past four years, United States Steel Corporation and the popular Pittsburgh Pirates player have teamed up to help RMHC's children and families. Each season, United States Steel donates $100 for each of Bay's singles, $200 for doubles, $300 for triples, $400 for homeruns and $1,000 for each grand slam. During Thursday's match-up against the Chicago White Sox , Bay's performance moved the program's four-season total over the $100,000 mark.

According to United States Steel Corporation General Manager of Public Affairs Chuck Rice, "Our company has been proud to step up to the plate with Jason and the Pittsburgh Pirates over the last four years to aid Ronald McDonald House Charities of Pittsburgh. Jason's passionate support of RMHC and our commitment to the region we're proud to call home have created a winning formula that has generated a substantial amount of money for a deserving organization.

RMHC Executive Director Bill Grattan said, "At Ronald McDonald House, we feel so fortunate to have United States Steel and Jason Bay on our team. This program is a real hit for the families of seriously ill children who make our House their temporary home."

"We are extremely proud that Jason's on-field performance has resulted in making a positive difference off the field, thanks to the United States Steel Corporation," said Pirates President, Frank Coonelly. "This is an excellent example of how two long-standing Pittsburgh institutions, the Pirates and United States Steel, can join together to make an impact in the lives of families in need."

Ronald McDonald House Charities of PIttsburgh provides a home away from home for families who must travel to receive medical treatment for their seriously ill children. Located near Children's Hospital and other area medical facilities, RMHC gives families a place to sleep, eat, relax and find support from others in similar situations. Last year, more than 750 families stayed at the Pittsburgh Ronald McDonald House.