Last week, we wrote about how Spanish soccer club Villarreal will be offering free tickets to unemployed fans & remarked that American sports teams should follow suit.

One team has answered that call. The first American team to give free tickets to the unemployed is the Buffalo Bisons.

The Bisons, who are the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets, are offering free tickets to their April 9th Opening Day game against the Pawtucket Red Sox to people who are out of work. At least this will give Gary Sheffield something to do that day.

“Our nation’s pastime has seen this country through many tough times, and together the two have always come out on top,” said Mike Buczkowski, Vice President/General Manager of the Bisons. “Many of the fans that helped us shatter attendance records are the ones being affected by this unsettling economic environment. The Bisons are honored to make all those fans our guests on Opening Day.”

The Buffalo Bisons are teaming up with the New York State Labor Department for the promotion.

“Spring is here in Western New York, and with it, a new beginning for the Buffalo Bisons and their fans,” State Labor Commissioner M. Patricia Smith said, “On April 9, come to the ballpark, bring your families and most importantly, watch the Bisons trounce the Red Sox. Just as Opening Day is filled with promise, we at the State Labor Department are proud to be teaming with the Bisons to spread the promise of hope to the unemployed right here in Western New York.”

It’s good that unemployed Buffalo-area residents will be able to take their mind off their situation for a few hours during the game. Hopefully the Bisons won’t get snowed out.

Bisons Offer Tickets to Unemployed [Buffalo Bisons]

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