NBA: Sixers center Joel Embiid donating ASG earnings to homeless

NBA: Utah Jazz at Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has averaged 30.2 points and 11.6 rebounds in 30 games.
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Sixers center Joel Embiid is donating $100,000 in earnings from Sunday’s All-Star Game to combat homelessness in Philadelphia.

The four-time All-Star said Saturday that his contributions will to to several of the city’s homeless shelters, including Project HOME, Sunday Breakfast Mission and Youth Service INC.

“So many have fallen on such hard times during the pandemic,” Embiid said in a news release issued by the team. “I felt it was important to provide more support for individuals and families struggling with homelessness and food insecurity. I’m continually grateful for all of the support that Philadelphia and the fans have given me not just around All-Star but all my years in the league. I will continue to help in any way I can.”

Embiid’s donation will provide 15,000 meals for homeless and underserved individuals; 4,000 essential clothing items for homeless teens and adults; care and treatment of 100,000 homeless individuals receiving COVID-19 vaccines; support for 30-plus former homeless families, including education, health care and employment; funding for a six-week summer camp for 50-plus homeless and at-risk youth; and shelter and essential needs for 300-plus teens facing homelessness or home insecurity.

A leading contender for MVP honors this season, Embiid reached the break averaging 30.2 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.2 steals in 30 games.

—Field Level Media