03/27/06 Boston Red Sox to Receive Award for Helping RI Children   Family Service of Rhode Island loves the Boston Red Sox.  Not only because of their prowess on the field, but because they’ve shown they have a heart for children. And the agency, a non-profit human service and educational organization, has named them the recipient of the Brighter Futures Award.  The award is presented annually to an individual or organization making an outstanding contribution to the well-being of the state’s children.  “The Sox could have provided a donation and we would have been very pleased,” said Margaret Holland McDuff, the agency’s chief executive officer.  “But they, along with the Pawtucket Red Sox, have developed an ongoing relationship with us to benefit children in need.” It all began in July of 2003 when John Henry, the Red Sox principal owner, along with Charles Steinberg, the team’s executive vice president for public affairs, Wally the Green Monster and Paws from the Pawtucket Red Sox visited a Family Service of Rhode Island group home for children located in East Providence.  The visitors provided financial support and gifts. But it hasn’t stopped there.  The Sox literally adopted the home.  The presents have kept coming, and the boys living in the home have been the Red Sox honored guests at Fenway.  In January, the Boston Red Sox hitting coach, Ron “Papa Jack” Jackson stopped by and gave the kids batting tips and gifts. “We have been overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness and generosity,” said Holland McDuff.  “They have brought joy into the lives of Rhode Island children who have had lives filled with disappointment and fear.” "We are honored to be honored," Steinberg said.  "The people of Rhode Island have been such devoted participants in Red Sox baseball.  They are such a part of the family. We enjoy the opportunity to do our part as family members to help where and when we can, and we are so appreciative of this recognition of our efforts.  We are grateful; we're big fans of Rhode Island."  On Monday, November 13 at the Rhode Island Convention Center the Boston Red Sox will formally be presented the award.  For information on the event, which is a fund raiser for the agency, call (401) 331-1350 ext. 3319 or visit www.familyserviceri.org.   (end)