The NFL is continuing with its plans for the 2020 draft on April 23-25. The criticism of the event taking place will be blunted after Wednesday’s announcement the league is conducting a “Draft-A-Thon” in concert with the selection process.
The three-day fundraiser will be featured across the live coverage on ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes and NFL Network April 23-25 and pay tribute to healthcare workers and first responders in a variety of ways — including raising funds for the work being done to combat the impact of COVID-19. Funds will help a half-dozen six national nonprofits and their respective COVID-19 relief efforts including:
» American Red Cross and its work to maintain a sufficient supply of blood while continuing to deliver its lifesaving mission due to the Coronavirus Outbreak
» CDC Foundation’s All of Us: Combat Coronavirus Campaign to support vulnerable communities and bolster laboratory capacity, clinical research, data and technology infrastructure and local response efforts
» Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund: to help member food banks meet the increased need due to school closures, job disruptions, and current health risks
» Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund: to ensure local communities have what they need to feed the at-risk elderly population
» Salvation Army and its network form a safety net for individuals and families living in poverty or experiencing homelessness by providing food, shelter, hygiene kits, as well as support to first responders
» United Way’s COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund: to help those in need access food and shelter, childcare for first responders and more while bolstering 211, United Way’s go-to information resource in times of crisis
“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,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “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.”
More details about the Draft-A-Thon and how to donate will be announced in the coming days.