The Red Sox Foundation says its RBI program serves about 1,700 young people annually, ages 5 to 18, in Boston, Chelsea and Lawrence. Support includes uniforms, equipment, umpires, fields and travel.

The foundation outlined that work in its September 2 announcement of a Fenway showcase, with baseball and softball players scheduled to take part. Behind the ballpark invitation is a year-round concern for local families: having the equipment and places needed to play.