The Pirates Charities Fields for Kids - Field Grant

The Fields for Kids program is a charitable grant initiative managed by Pirates Charities, the philanthropic arm of the Pittsburgh Pirates Major League Baseball team. Since its inception in 2009, this program has provided critical financial and material support to enhance youth baseball and softball facilities in select areas of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. The program emphasizes community enrichment by supporting local projects that improve the infrastructure where children learn important values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline. Fields that benefit from this support become vital spaces for young athletes, fostering both personal and athletic development. The program primarily supports nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations, schools, and local government entities that operate youth baseball and/or softball programs. Eligible applicants must be located within designated counties in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ market area. These include counties in Pennsylvania (such as Allegheny, Beaver, and Westmoreland), Ohio (such as Belmont and Jefferson), and West Virginia (such as Brooke and Monongalia). Projects outside these areas may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the volume and location of competing applications. Fields for Kids grants are generally awarded in amounts under $10,000. Projects requiring more than this threshold are directed to apply for a separate "Signature Grant" program, expected to launch in 2024. While the primary focus is field refurbishment—including components like sod replacement, fencing, dugouts, and irrigation—the program also allows for facility upgrades such as lighting, batting cages, bleachers, scoreboards, and concession stands. However, funding cannot be used for land purchases, parking lots, press boxes, or restrooms. The initiative also evaluates uniform and equipment requests on a case-by-case basis. All applicants are expected to contribute matching support to their proposed projects, either through financial means, in-kind donations, or labor. Applications are accepted through a designated portal, and Pirates Charities representatives may reach out for additional information during the review process. Organizations are advised to provide up-to-date contact information, including monitored phone numbers and email addresses. Those seeking paper applications or guidance may contact Jake Bryant at [email protected]. The program operates on a recurring annual cycle, with funding rounds scheduled three times in 2025—in April, June, and August. Successful applicants are required to complete their projects within one calendar year of receiving the award. Before reapplying for future cycles, grantees must submit a final project report. This ensures accountability and allows Pirates Charities to track the program’s community impact and continued relevance. In summary, Fields for Kids is a focused initiative aimed at enriching the community through youth sports by improving the conditions of baseball and softball fields. Its structured application process, commitment to matching contributions, and regional scope position it as a reliable and impactful funding opportunity for organizations within the designated counties of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ operational footprint.