Saints and NFL’s Major Donation For Bourbon Street Assault Support

Bourbon and St Louis street signs with neon lights

The New Orleans Saints and the NFL have pledged $1 million to assist victims of a tragic Bourbon Street attack, leaving many eager to see how this support helps the victims’ families.

At a Glance

Saints and NFL pledge $1 million for Bourbon Street assault victims.
Donation supports victims’ families via local organizations like GNOF and United Way.
14 fatalities, 35 injuries confirmed in the New Year’s Day attack.
Suspect linked to the Islamic State, classified as a terrorist act by the FBI.
President Biden praised New Orleans’ resilience and plans a visit.

$1 Million Donation for Support and Recovery

The New Orleans Saints and the NFL announced a $1 million donation to assist victims of the New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street. This contribution will help support relief efforts through local organizations such as the Greater New Orleans Foundation and the United Way. Saints owner Gayle Benson is donating $500,000, matched by the NFL Foundation to facilitate the distribution of necessary resources to aid the affected families.

The attack claimed 14 lives and injured 35 people. Local, national, and international victims were impacted, as the suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Texas man with ISIS ties, targeted the crowd. The incident, classified as a terrorist act by the FBI, ended with Jabbar’s death during a confrontation with authorities. In response to the tragedy, the Saints and NFL’s financial pledge sends a message of solidarity and support.

Community and Government Support

Alongside monetary assistance, President Joe Biden condemned the attack, emphasizing New Orleans’ spirit and resilience. The President and First Lady Jill Biden plan to visit the city to show their support for the community’s recovery efforts. To honor victims, a moment of silence will take place before NFL games this weekend, reaffirming the league’s commitment to healing.

“New Orleans is a place unlike any other place in the world. It’s a city full of charm and joy. So many people around the world love New Orleans because of its history, its culture, and, above all, its people,” said Biden following the attack.

This collaborative effort aims to not only aid victims’ families but also uplift the city’s spirit by partnering with local philanthropic entities. Past philanthropy efforts from the Saints and their partners underscore an ongoing commitment to the community. Saints owner Gayle Benson has a history of giving back, having donated over $4 million to GNOF, including pandemic relief grants.

Condolences and Pledges from the Sports World

In support of this initiative, additional donations poured in from members of the sports community. Pelicans forward Zion Williamson contributed $100,000 to the GNOF’s tragedy fund, while Saints defensive end Cam Jordan added $25,000 towards relief efforts. These donations reflect a broader commitment to rebuilding lives and fostering a sense of unity and strength within the community.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said, “Our hearts go out to all those affected by the tragic events in New Orleans. The NFL is committed to standing with the resilient community of New Orleans during this difficult time.”

A vigil held on Bourbon Street celebrated the lives lost, morphing into a vibrant demonstration of New Orleans’ enduring spirit, with a brass band performance honoring the victims. While the moment was one of mourning and remembrance, it also sought to capture the city’s undying vitality and commitment to overcoming adversity.