ESPN has announced that New York City FC was a finalist for the annual Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year Award.
City in the Community (CITC), the charity supported by NYCFC and City Football Group, was launched in 2014 to use soccer to tackle social issues around health, education and crime prevention and has been committed to this important work since.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, NYCFC and CITC helped donate moe than 143,000 meals to the South Bronx community, which been greatly affected by the pandemic. In alignment with health and safety guidelines from authorities, CITC transitioned 100 percent of its free soccer core programs to virtual platforms to ensure the wellbeing of local youth. The research from a third-party study has shown a $4.50 return in health benefits for every $1 invested in CITC programs.
“During the trying time that we’re experiencing together, it speaks volumes for ESPN and the entire sports world to come together and continue to invest in communities,” CITC executive director and board member Paul Jeffries said in a statement.
“The combined efforts from NYCFC players, fans, young leaders, community coaches, elected officials, partners and front office has allowed us to develop life-changing pathways for New York City youth. Our programs are successful because we don’t stop at funding; we are a part of the neighborhoods and schools on the day-to-day to create opportunities for youth to have access to the game and beyond.”
NYCFC and three other finalists – the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Dodgers and Sacramento Kings – will receive a $25,000 grant to the charity related to their award-winning humanitarian efforts.
The the Humanitarian Team of the Year Award will be announced as part of the ESPYS on June 21 at 9 p.m. and will receive $100,000 towards its charitable efforts.
