Fans invited to help O's Hurricane Sandy relief efforts

First a hurricane, then a snowstorm. The poor folks in New Jersey have been hit by a one-two punch, to be sure. Now, it's our turn to step up and help. And the Orioles are making it possible for you to do your part. The Orioles are partnering with Von Paris Moving and Storage to fill two to three large moving vans with the most critically needed relief items so they can be delivered directly to the New Jersey communities of Union Beach, Belmar, Tom's River, Hazlet and Seabright. That's where you come in. Simply put, the O's want and need your help to make this relief campaign a success. Fans may bring donations to the Orioles offices in the Warehouse at Oriole Park today until 5 p.m. and tomorrow from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fans may park temporarily in the North Warehouse Lot near the Orioles Team Store and should use the Baltimore Orioles Offices entrance to the Warehouse, dropping the items off at the second floor reception desk. At this time, these are the most needed items: * water - 1 liter or smaller bottles for easier transport * food - canned, pop-top preferred * rice (5- and 10-lb. bags] * disposable charcoal grills and charcoal * matches (in Ziploc bags) * powdered milk, baby formula and bottles * pet supplies and food * first aid kits and items for first aid kits * battery operated radios * flashlights and batteries * paper cups, napkins, and plastic utensils * non-electric can openers and utility knives * duct tape * plastic Ziploc bags * personal care items including soap, toilet paper, feminine products and wipes * household items like garbage bags, disinfectant and bleach * plastic tarps * portable generators * like new laundered clothes, especially baby and children * blankets and sleeping bags * coats * shoes * pack and plays * diapers * like-new furniture In addition to these efforts, Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association are jointly contributing $1 million to organizations helping communities devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Additional information is available here and here.