Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has demonstrated his commitment to the local community by donating $200,000 to purchase air conditioning units for ten schools in Philadelphia.
Hurts made the announcement during a surprise visit to Edward Gideon School on April 19, 2024.
Jalen Hurts is donating $200,000 to the School District of Philadelphia to buy 300+ air conditioning units for 10 schools.
"The least that I can do is do what I'm doing now. This is my duty." pic.twitter.com/REZvuWU275
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) April 20, 2024
Hurts, speaking to students at Edward Gideon Elementary School, emphasized the importance of providing a conducive learning environment for all children.
Reflecting on overheated classrooms that led to early school closures, Hurts expressed his dismay and highlighted the detrimental impact on students’ education.
The generous donation will fund the installation of 314 air conditioning units across various schools in Philadelphia, including Clara Barton, Gloria Casarez, Castor Gardens, D. Newlin Fell, Thomas Finletter, Fitler Academics Plus, Benjamin Franklin/Science Leadership Academy, Edward Gideon, Abram Jenks, and Theodore Roosevelt.
These schools faced early closures due to excessive heat, affecting tens of thousands of students.
Hurts’ philanthropic gesture received a warm reception at Edward Gideon School, where staff and students expressed their gratitude.
Teachers like Ameenah Johnson lauded the initiative, emphasizing the importance of creating a comfortable learning environment conducive to academic success.
The impact of Hurts’ donation extends beyond mere relief from the sweltering heat. Students like Kamya Freeman and Kaniya Mcgill shared their struggles with learning in excessively hot classrooms and expressed relief and gratitude for the newfound comfort provided by the air conditioning units.
Superintendent Tony Watlington commended Hurts’ contribution, describing it as a “game changer” for the district. While acknowledging the challenges posed by aging school infrastructure, Watlington outlined plans to install additional units to ensure a conducive learning environment for all students.
Hurts, who actively engaged with students during his visit to Edward Gideon School, expressed his desire to continue supporting the community.
