Russell Wilson and Ciara, part of the 11 families that joined the Seattle Sounders’ ownership group last August, are looking to make a difference in their adopted city.
Wilson, also the quarterback of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks, and Ciara, a world-famous singer, are donating one million meals to those impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. They’ve partnered with Food Lifeline, a group that distributes to over 300 food banks, shelters and meal programs throughout Western Washington.
They announced the news via a one-minute Twitter video Tuesday night, with Seattle considered an epicenter for the pandemic in the United States.
“It’s changing the world second by second, minute by minute,” Wilson said. “People are losing loved ones, the elderly and the young, people in between. Think about people losing jobs, even in Seattle.”
As of Tuesday afternoon, the Washington State Department of Health website cited 1,012 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 52 deaths. There’s a concentration in King County, where Seattle is located.
Now, the Sounders’ co-owners hope others chip in if they’re able to. Donations to Food Lifeline can be made here.
“We want to encourage everyone out there to join us in whatever way that you can, big or small,” Ciara said. “Everything makes a difference, everything we do together makes a difference. Together we will conquer this tough time we’re going through. We have faith, and want to encourage everyone else out there to keep the faith. Also, practice social distancing and be blessed.”
This past Monday, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee issued an emergency proclamation for a two-week closure of all restaurants, bars, and entertainment and recreational facilities. It’s set to last through March 31, with current Center for Disease Control guidelines suggesting people avoid gatherings of 10 people or more.
Related to COVID-19, the Major League Soccer season was suspended for 30 days last week. There's also a training moratorium that's set to last through Friday.
