From L.A. to Oklahoma City, Star Athlete Gives Back

Oklahoma has its share of celebrities and professional athletes, and one of them may have elevated himself to super stardom in the eyes of many Oklahomans this week.

Thursday, December 22nd 2011, 8:20 pm

By: News 9


Oklahoma has its share of celebrities and professional athletes, and one of them may have elevated himself to super stardom in the eyes of many Oklahomans this week.

Matt Kemp attended Midwest City High School and excelled in basketball and baseball.  He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2003, and after a few years in the minor league system, made his professional debut in 2006.  

He made his bid for super stardom at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma on Thursday morning, starting with a $10,000 donation.  Additionally, Kemp has committed to donating $1,000 dollars to the Food Bank for every home run he hits next year.  He hit 39 during the 2010-2011 season. 

"I'm in a position where I can give back and help others,"said Kemp.  "That's what I'm gonna do."

Kemp spent most of Thursday delivering toys and winter coats to families in need.  He even helped children at the Riverside Mobile Home Park try their coats on for size.

"The background that I have, the way I was raised," Kemp said, "we were always raised to help others."

Kemp was presented with the key to Oklahoma City by Mayor Mick Cornett, but he plans on continuing his Christmas trip back to Oklahoma regardless of the accolades.

"This is my first time comin' to Oklahoma and doin' something like this," Kemp said.  "For me to give back is something that's really humbling and something that needs to be done."
  

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