As Vegas Fights COVID-19, Raiders Donate $1M Towards Effort

As the world continues to stay under quarantine amidst the coronavirus pandemic, the Las Vegas Raiders are doing their part to help the efforts in Las Vegas. Owner Mark Davis announced Friday morning the team will be donating $1 million to fight COVID-19 in southern Nevada.

As thousands of residents struggle with the loss of jobs as well as fear of viral spread, the Raiders are stepping up for their new community. Las Vegas’ first pro football franchise has already been involved in the community for the last few years but this is a larger step into community relationships for the Silver and Black.

“The Las Vegas Raiders are proud to stand alongside the incredible community leaders that are doing everything that they can during this time of need,” Davis said in a statement. “Health and safety is always our top priority and we’d like to salute Governor Sisolak, Jim Murren and the entire Task Force for their tireless efforts in supporting health officials and healthcare workers throughout the Silver State.”

» https://t.co/c4u7NVr3hA pic.twitter.com/Hij4slxXDo

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) April 3, 2020

Nevada and Las Vegas have been fighting the viral spread since the “stay at home” order came down from Gov. Sisolak March 13. Considering 41 million visitors came to Las Vegas in 2019, the impact of the virus and shutdown has been widespread. Despite being a tourist hub, Nevada has just 1,458 confirmed cases after testing more than 14,000 residents for the COVID-19 virus. The death toll has remained somewhat low with just 38 deaths at the time this story was written.

Fans seemed supportive of the Raiders decision.

This is awesome of dA rAIDERS! Though, I must say I still cringe when I see "Las Vegas" Raiders. https://t.co/0eeuQuy1Sg

— Todd Mirkin .01% Non-Essential Company Employee (@TMirkin) April 3, 2020

Props to the Raiders for this. https://t.co/PwPj9RQqvd

— Stephen Dean (@stephenldean) April 3, 2020

While most pro sports leagues have shutdown with little action, the NFL has been a bright beacon of hope for so many. Offseason trades and acquisitions have offered millions of fans worldwide a welcome distraction from the daily doom and gloom of the news coverage surrounding the viral pandemic.

The Raiders have signed former Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota to back up Raiders franchise signal caller Derek Carr while also adding receiver Nelson Agholor, bolstering the defense and the offensive line. Friday morning, the Raiders announced the signing of former Browns and Packers defensive back Damarious Russell to a one-year deal.