Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and his wife, Ciara, are making a big donation to help the Puget Sound region as the coronavirus continues to take its toll, not just on those directly affected by the disease, but also on those dealing with the economic ramifications of a pandemic.
"Obviously this world-wide pandemic, the coronavirus, is changing the world, second by second, minute by minute," Wilson said in a video he and Ciara both shared on their social media channels. "People are losing loved ones."
To help those in need, Wilson and Ciara announced that they will donate a million meals to Food Lifeline, an organization that distributes food to more than 300 food banks, shelters and meal programs throughout Western Washington.
The Wilsons also encourage fans to join them in helping those in need. Donations to Food Lifeline can be made at https://foodlifeline.org/donate/.
"We want to encourage everyone out there to join us in whatever way you can, big or small," Ciara said. "Everything makes a difference. Everything we do together makes a difference, and together we will conquer this tough time we're going through. We have faith, and we want to encourage everyone else out there to keep the faith. Also practice social distancing. And be blessed. We're praying for everyone out there. Love you guys."
Helping in the community is nothing new to Wilson and Ciara, who through their Why Not You Foundation have raised more than $8 million for Strong against Cancer over the past six years, money that funds life-saving immunotherapy treatment. The couple also make regular visits to lift the spirits of children at Seattle Children's Hospital, something Wilson has done almost every week dating back to his rookie season in 2012.
"When I came into the league, my goal was to be able to impact people and impact lives," Wilson said in December when he was named the team's Steve Largent Award winner for the second straight year, an award given to the player who best exemplifies the spirit, dedication and integrity of the Seahawks. "That's what I've always wanted to be able to do, in the community and in this building. I want to be able to give back and love and care for others, then also be able to win football games too."
