COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio State football players practiced and then 40 members of the team took part in a community service event at Dick's Sporting Goods partnering with a child with Child Crisis Arizona.
The athletes shopped with their new friend for clothes, toys, and sports equipment among other things to help ensure this holiday season is special.
Child Crisis Arizona provides intervention, prevention and education programs designed to support thousands of at-risk youth and families. It serves 6,500 individuals each year, most of whom are children, and provides approximately 78,000 nights of safe sleep for children in need.
“It’s rewarding to take part in events like this because it’s a reminder that not everyone is as fortunate as we are,” said Buckeyes defensive end Zach Harrison. “I love doing this. I love being able to put a smile on a kid’s face. It’s very rewarding.”
The player’s presence was more than enough to brighten the holiday season. Cornerback Darryl Sinclair, who was paired with a young girl named Melissa, said it best: “I didn’t want to leave her,” he said while getting back on the bus at the conclusion of the event.
Dick's Sporting Goods and the Fiesta Bowl charities contributed 50 percent each in order to give the children $200 to spend on any items in the store.
