LA Chargers to donate at least $50,000 to aid in Maui wildfire relief efforts

The Los Angeles Chargers have pledged to donate at least $50,000 to help with wildfire relief efforts in Maui.

The Chargers as well as the Dodgers, Galaxy, Kings, LAFC, Lakers and Rams have pledged to donate $300,000 to the American Red Cross.

“The images and videos that have come out of Maui over the past week are heartbreaking,” said Dean Spanos, chairman of the Chargers board of directors. “The destruction is beyond comprehension and the loss of life is nothing short of tragic.”

The Chargers, like many other football teams, have native Hawaiians, such as Manti Te’o and safety Alohi Gilman, who bless their roster.

“In the wake of the recent events in Maui, the images, videos and stories of the past few days have struck a very personal chord with me,” said Gilman. “Maui isn’t just a place on the map; it’s part of my homeland, my connection to Hawaii. My heart resonates with the resilience of the people who have lost their homes while also standing up for their neighbors in need.”

The Chargers plan to donate their share of their 50/50 lottery proceeds. They hope to surpass the $50,000 benchmark in their preseason game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

“It has been extremely heartwarming to see people from all walks of life rally around my people and return that love and support,” said Te’o, who was called up by the team in 2013. “In life there are things we just can’t control, but what we can control is how we respond. This weekend is an opportunity for our Chargers’ ohana to respond; to come together and help Maui in its time of emergency. “

Fans can start buying tickets until the end of the third quarter when the gates open on Sunday. They can be purchased at the concourse and lottery kiosks throughout the SoFi Stadium.

Those unable to attend the game can donate directly to the American Red Cross.