Chris Long may no longer be a Patriot, but his impact in the New England is far from over.
After donating his first six game checks to fund scholarships in Charlottesville, Va., his hometown, he is now donating the final 10 game checks to four organizations in the three cities he has spent his NFL career -- St. Louis, Philadelphia and, of course, Boston.
Chris is playing for free this season and putting his money where his mouth is.
Throughout his time in New England, Patriots fans learned quickly that Chris often put his beliefs into actions, namely with Waterboys, but the Chris Long Foundation has zeroed in on four causes: clean water, homelessness, military support and youth in need. With his $1 million base salary, Chris chose four organizations that would benefit underserved students.
"In my 10th year, I want to celebrate the awesome opportunity I've had to play football by giving back to the communities that have given me that gift. Education opportunity and equity are the best gateway to a better tomorrow for everyone in America," Chris said in a statement.
While he will be donating money directly to the organizations, there is also a chance for each city to earn more. The Chris Long Foundation announced its Pledge 10 for Tomorrow initiative where fans can donate -- either one-time or a pledge for 10 weeks. The city that has the most pledges by the end of the regular season will get an additional $50,000 to its partner charity.
For Boston, that means Summer Search. The organization is committed to helping students "who have the desire and potential to graduate college, but who may not be able to due to under-resourced environments and oppressive systems that promote negative attitudes and beliefs about themselves and their belonging in an academic environment," according to its website. Summer Search provides mentorships, advising and experiential opportunities for the students it works with.
Chris's time in New England was short, but his influence both on the field and in the community has run deep within the region. It's safe to say he has earned some fans for life in Boston and beyond.
To donate to the New England Pledge 10 for Tomorrow, click the link here.
