Russell Wilson and Ciara are using their power couple platform to make the best possible difference this Thanksgiving season.
The Giants quarterback and his Grammy-winning wife announced this week that their Why Not You Foundation is making a $3 million gift to Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital in New York City.
The money will be used to support therapeutic spaces and programs for pediatric patients and their families.
“Ciara and I created the Why Not You Foundation, inspired by my father’s ‘Why Not You’ attitude, for kids to follow their dreams,” Wilson said. “And we believe every child deserves a safe space where they can thrive.”
Wilson, 36, who won Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium in February 2014, has visited Mount Sinai’s pediatric patients regularly in person this fall to strengthen a nearly decade-long relationship with the hospital.
“My visits to Mount Sinai are among the biggest highlights of my week,” Wilson added. “I look forward to spending time with the children, seeing the smiles on their faces and witnessing their strength and resilience.”
The Why Not You Foundation, whose mission centers on empowering youth, expanding access to education and supporting children’s health, will harness its $3 million gift to support facilities within the children’s hospital and will name the Child Life Zone Theater and the Play Space in the Jack Martin Fund Inpatient Unit for Children’s Cancer and Blood Disease.
These renovated and newly named spaces will strengthen Mount Sinai’s commitment to child and family-centered care.
“This remarkable gift advances our vision of creating safe, developmentally supportive environments for every child who walks through our doors,” said Dr. Lisa M. Satlin. “Whether in the Child Life Zone Theater or our specialized inpatient units, these spaces are essential to helping children cope, connect, and find joy during hospitalization. We are deeply grateful to the Why Not You Foundation for believing in the power of healing through play, community, and creative expression.”
The Child Life Zone Theater is part of a state-of-the-art venue for therapeutic play, movies, performances, family events and creative arts therapy. The Play Space offers a uniquely protected environment where young patients can safely engage in play, exploration and social connection.
“Giving back through partnerships like this is a dream for us,” Ciara said. “Our mission with the Why Not You Foundation has always been to open doors and create spaces where young people feel supported and inspired. We’re beyond blessed to help expand these therapeutic environments so children and their families can experience moments of joy, creativity and healing when they need it most.”
MORE GIANTS GIVING BACK
Giants safety Jevon Holland, right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor and teammates participated in two Thanksgiving food and turkey giveaways prior to the holiday at the Boys and Girls Club of Hudson County in Jersey City and at the American Eagle Food Pantry of North New Jersey in Lodi. Both events were organized to distribute food and turkeys to families, youth and neighbors in need.
