Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers pledges half a million dollars to help small businesses struggling through the ongoing pandemic.
Rodgers told Instagram Live on Instagram Live Friday, Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, that he made the initial $ 500,000 donation from Portnoy that started The Barstool Fund, a charity that supports businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I just want to participate,” said Rodgers. ‘I participate. I want to receive the same amount if you put in it. You started at $ 500,000, that’s what I get for. It’s an honor to be a part of it. “
The Barstool Fund has now raised more than $ 22 million and helped 102 different businesses as of Sunday morning.
Rodgers believes the charity helps businesses by “doing something the government doesn’t do”. The fund provides companies with ‘life-changing money’ within two or three days.
Rodgers also called on teammates and others to help the companies he described as the “backbone of this country.”
“It’s a call to action for everyone to keep on donating and doing what they can,” said Rodgers.
Rodgers said he was inspired by The Barstool Fund’s videos helping save small businesses.
“I’m amazed at what you guys have done, and I couldn’t sit on the sidelines anymore,” said Rodgers. “This has a real impact. We are talking about our people, these are our people. This is the backbone of this country taking it on the chin right now, I want to get in, I have to get in. “
Small businesses can apply for help from The Barstool Fund here.