Food banks have distributed an estimated 4.2 billion meals in the United States since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak last March.
Now an NBA icon is stepping in to help.
Michael Jordan is giving $2 million in proceeds from his hit docuseries “The Last Dance” to Feeding America.
Jordan made the announcement the day before Thanksgiving, which Feeding America shared in a Tweet.
An incredible gift to be thankful for – NBA legend Michael Jordan is donating $2 million to help our neighbors facing hunger! #TheLastDance
Every action makes a difference. Join Michael & visit https://t.co/ExF6iX3wr7 to learn how you can donate or volunteer this holiday season. pic.twitter.com/UVUFQlbe0p
— Feeding America (@FeedingAmerica) November 25, 2020
The donation caps off a year of charitable giving for Jordan who has become more involved in social issues and community outreach.
The G.O.A.T. already committed $3-$4 million in proceeds from “the Last Dance” to the non-profit Friends of the Children, pledged more than $100 million to social justice issues and education, and opened a second health clinic in Charlotte.
Jordan’s announcement was welcome news as Feeding America estimates that 1 in 6 Americans could face hunger during the pandemic.
The national organization has been helping individuals and families struggling with food insecurity for over 40 years.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting unemployment have exacerbated the need for food assistance.
But as many companies have been forced to cut workers, Jordan and the Hornets are among the few NBA teams that have not laid off any employees or imposed salary reductions.
Coronavirus rates have skyrocketed across the US and are expected to worsen as people travel for the holidays.
The Center for Disease Control predicts that anywhere from 1 million to 2. 5 million new cases will be reported the week of December 19, 2020.
The NBA 2020-21 season is scheduled to start Dec. 22.