With sports all around the world coming to a pause in the middle of their seasons, many athletes around the United States have been taking action to help the fight against COVID-19. Athletes from various organizations like the MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL have been donating money to different organizations to help those in need. Some are also donating to their own team’s program to help the facility’s employees.

Recently, the MLB informed players that they were going to continue to pay them while the season was suspended. Houston Astros pitcher Justin Verlander, along with his wife Kate Upton, released that they were going to donate the money from the paychecks to different organizations that support those in need.  

“Everyone around the world is affected by this virus, and we hope to contribute to the families and jobs affected, the healthcare workers, first responders on the front line and many others in need of basic necessities, medical supplies and support from home,” Verlander said on his Instagram on Apr. 4. “We know everyone is impacted by this crisis, but for those who are able, we encourage you to stay home to help flatten the curve and look to those around you who need a helping hand.”

From the Milwaukee Bucks, star players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton have both donated $100,000 to the Fiserv Forum staff while they are out of work due to the suspension in the NBA season. The Bucks have also released that as an organization, they will match Antetokounmpo’s donation. 

“It’s bigger than basketball,” Antetokounmpo said on his twitter on Mar. 13. “During this tough time I want to help the people that make my life, my family’s lives and my teammate’s lives easier.”

Closer to home, the Chicago Bears have also released that they are going to provide support to the Chicago community during this time. The Bears have donated $1.92 million to local COVID-19 relief efforts in order to help the community’s fight against the coronavirus.

“During this unprecedented crisis, we all need to join forces and do what we can to overcome this challenge together,” Ted Phillips, the team’s President and CEO said on the Bears’ website. “We forever will be grateful to the healthcare providers, first responders, grocers, sanitation workers, janitors and everyone keeping our communities healthy and safe during this time.” 

Also from the Chicago community, the Chicago Blackhawks captain, Jonathan Toews has contributed to the relief efforts by donating $100,000 to the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund through the Jonathan Toews Foundation. 

“Do your part for your family, friends, healthcare workers, doctors, nurses, and all the people putting themselves at great risk,” Toews said on the Blackhawks’ Instagram. “Let’s do our part, let’s stick together, stay home and help save lives.”

Now, these aren’t the only athletes supporting and donating to COVID-19 relief efforts. Many different athletes across the country and even across the world have donated money to organizations helping out or have spread the message to fans about staying home and practicing social distancing. 

While many normal families and other people are also helping out the community by making masks and donating food, professional athletes are using the money they have for a good cause and it’s helping everyone come together in a positive light.