Community Corner

Michael Jordan Donates $2 Million To Feeding America Food Banks

The money comes from proceeds the former NBA star earned from "The Last Dance," a Netflix-ESPN documentary series about his career, he said.

Michael Jordan speaks during The Celebration of Life for Kobe & Gianna Bryant at Staples Center on Feb. 24 in Los Angeles, California.
Michael Jordan speaks during The Celebration of Life for Kobe & Gianna Bryant at Staples Center on Feb. 24 in Los Angeles, California. (Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

CHICAGO — Former NBA star Michael Jordan has donated $2 million to Feeding America and its food banks in Chicago and the Carolinas, according to a post from the non-profit hunger-relief organization, which called it "an incredible gift to be thankful for."

According to a statement from Jordan, the money comes from a recently-released Netflix-ESPN documentary series called "The Last Dance," which focuses on Jordan's basketball career and his last season with the Chicago Bulls.

"In these challenging times and in a year of unimaginable difficulty due to COVID-19, it's more important than ever to pause and give thanks," Jordan wrote. "I am proud to be donating additional proceeds from The Last Dance to Feeding America and its member food banks in the Carolinas and Chicago to help feed America's hungry."

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Feeding America operates a network of 200 food banks across the county, working with retailers, food service companies and farmers to collect food that would otherwise go to waste, and partnering with local food banks to distribute it to more than 40 million people every year, according to the groups' website. To learn how you can donate, visit FeedingAmerica.org/COVID19.

Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 50 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.

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