Regina Red Sox host online raffle

The Regina Red Sox could use your help.

The Western Major Baseball League team has seen a major loss of revenue because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The season was cancelled, and the team has been unable to go ahead with any of its major annual fundraisers.

To generate some revenue, the team has organized an online fundraising raffle.

Sharon Clarke, the team’s executive director, said the financial toll of the pandemic has been difficult to deal with.

“We have bills to pay for, just like every household or small business. We still have a lease on the office, we have a leased car and all of the expenses that go with it. Even though we’re not actually on the field, we still have a lot of hidden expenses,” she explained.

“If we continue going without any income, we’re not going to be here for long.”

The bulk of the teams lost revenue is from cancelled fundraisers, according to Clarke. Because the season was cancelled the team is not incurring the usual expenses tied to playing but still has to maintain office costs.

While it is a tough situation, she’s confident the team will be able to pull through. She believes the community in Regina and the surrounding areas is willing to help out.

“(This raffle) is, invariably, a fundraiser. For most people, it’s a donation. It’s exciting that somebody is going to win, but it’s pretty small odds. We’re just so grateful for the community and the support,” she said.

“In all of the calls that I’m getting, people are saying over and over again how much they miss baseball. That’s a good thing.”

The draw will take place on Monday at 6 p.m. The winner will take home half of the ticket sales.