The NFL is turning its 2020 draft into a three-day fundraiser for The Salvation Army and a handful of other charities helping with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The “Draft-A-Thon” announced Wednesday will benefit COVID-19 relief efforts and pay tribute to healthcare workers and first responders. The typically massive live event will be conducted virtually for the first time in its history.
“As we face this global health crisis together, we are filled with gratitude for the extraordinary work of first responders, healthcare workers and many others who are helping those in need,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “The Draft-A-Thon will deliver much-needed funding to many who are suffering as well as those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conducting this event virtually, and taking all necessary precautions while doing so, underscores the importance of staying home and staying strong during this unprecedented moment in our history.”
The fundraiser will be featured during the draft April 23-25 to raise money for nonprofits selected by the NFL Foundation: The Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, CDC Foundation’s All of Us, Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund for member food banks, the Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund, and United Way’s COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund.
Fans and other supporters can donate through one central fund throughout the three days, which will add to the more than $43 million already donated by the collective NFL family. More details about the Draft-A-Thon and how to donate will be announced in the coming days.
HOW TO HELP:
- If you’d like to make a monetary donation, please click here to make a gift.
- Text ‘GIVE’ to 52000 to make a $10 donation to The Salvation Army. This will automatically add a one-time donation to your next mobile phone bill.
- For information about volunteering, please visit volunteer.usawest.org.
- To learn more about how to support The Salvation Army’s relief efforts, please click here.