Athletes don’t just do amazing things on the field or court; they also inspire us by what they’re doing to help others.
Today we’re recognizing athletes, both professional and amateur, who have contributed to No Kid Hungry’s mission.
Trevor Lawrence and Marissa Mowry Stepping Up for Kids Even When Challenged
Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence and fiancée Marissa Mowry started a fundraiser for families affected by the pandemic. The crowdfunding page was initially deactivated by Lawrence due to NCAA fundraising restrictions.
Mowry, a soccer player at Anderson University in South Carolina, decided to continue the effort by linking No Kid Hungry in her Instagram profile.
“We’re still going to do our best to love on y’all and support one another during this hard time,” she said in her Instagram post.
The NCAA eventually waived the restrictions for Lawrence — who was nominated for the 2020 Heisman trophy.
Julia Zachgo, Annie Pierce and Jacob Seeber Running Against Hunger
These members of the North Carolina State University cross country and track and field team decided to help feed kids at the start of the pandemic.
They created Run Against Hunger, a virtual run-a-thon that raised money for No Kid Hungry. They had over 60 teams involved, ranging from high school to college and professional teams.
Run Against Hunger exceeded their expectations by raising over $86,000.
“We saw the impact the whole running community can have when working together, and we will be forever grateful,” Zachgo said about the overwhelming support.
Saquon Barkley, Aaron Judge and A'ja Wilson Rallying Communities Against Hunger
Professional athletes from different sports, including New York Giants’ running back Saquon Barkley, New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge and WNBA All-Star A'ja Wilson, joined an effort to raise funds for No Kid Hungry.
Pepsico launched the Give Meals, Give Hope campaign, pledging $1 million to help feed kids and enlisting their athlete network to encourage the public to match their donation. The campaign exceeded its goal, generating more than $1 million in additional funds for No Kid Hungry.
Barkley rallied his followers on Twitter by explaining the effect of school closures on kids. He said, “Let’s make sure that no kid goes hungry, and let’s make a difference in these families' lives.”
Let’s team up to fight child hunger--go to https://t.co/9W0aae41Go to help ensure kids across America get the meals they desperately need. @PepsiCo @nokidhungry #givemealsgivehope pic.twitter.com/yaun2F7hgN
— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) April 11, 2020
Yannick Ngakoue Helping Kids in His Hometown
The Baltimore Ravens defensive end partnered with No Kid Hungry in April of 2020, generously donating to combat hunger both in his home state of Maryland and nationally.
Ngakoue mentioned No Kid Hungry in an interview with ESPN and tweeted a simple but powerful statement: “Kids are the future. Period.”
He also took to social media with our Thank a Hunger Hero social media campaign to recognize people working to feed kids during the pandemic.
During this time,we can’t forget vulnerable kids during the COVID19 crisis.That is why I have partnered with NoKidHungry. With schools closed many hungry kids across the nation are losing their only source of food.If you can, please join me in helping to feed them;Donate Today
— Yannick Ngakoue (@YannickNgakoue) April 10, 2020
Jonathan Taylor Wearing No Kid Hungry in His Cleats
The running back for the Indiana Colts chose No Kid Hungry for the NFL’s campaign #MyCauseMyCleats.
The initiative allowed players to wear cleats in support of causes they’re passionate about. Taylor helped create awareness about our mission.
Other professional athletes that have contributed to our mission, include Stephen Curry, Shaquille O’Neal, Hunter Pence, the Washington Nationals among many others.
Athletes have been an essential part of the fight to end childhood hunger in the U.S. For that, we can’t thank them enough.
Want to support hungry kids? Professional or amateur athletes, you can make a difference for those who need it most. Join us!
