The Mid-American Conference (MAC) has reaffirmed its commitment to community outreach by extending Anne’s Pantry into the 2026 baseball season, a program that began as a heartfelt tribute to Anne Steinbrecher, the late wife of Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher.
Named for the beloved Anne Steinbrecher, the initiative seeks to provide meals and raise funds for families across Northeast Ohio, leveraging the excitement of the MAC Baseball Championship in Avon to draw attention to local needs.
Fans attending games at ForeFront Field will find donation bins positioned throughout the venue, encouraging contributions of nonperishable food items, baseball equipment, and monetary gifts. Each qualifying donation unlocks a free youth admission voucher for children aged 13 and under, a incentive that has proven effective in previous editions.
During the 2026 MAC Basketball Tournament, the pantry delivered roughly 15,000 meals and raised more than $7,200, a testament to the program’s growing impact. Organizers anticipate surpassing those numbers as the baseball championship approaches.
Ryan Virtue, Executive Director at Community Resource Services, expressed pride in the partnership, noting that the collaboration amplifies the reach of Anne’s Pantry and aligns with CRS’s mission to support vulnerable populations.
Looking ahead
The effort will also carry over to the 2026 MAC Softball Tournament, where the Akron‑Canton Regional Food Bank will join as a partner, further strengthening the network of assistance across the region. With the championship slated for early summer, local leaders hope the combined momentum will inspire additional sponsors and volunteers to join the cause, ensuring that the legacy of Anne Steinbrecher continues to feed both bodies and hearts throughout Ohio.