Lamar Jackson Pledges $200 Million to Ensure Free School Lunches for Students Nationwide, Addressing Growing Hunger Crisis
In a groundbreaking move, NFL star Lamar Jackson has announced a $200 million donation aimed at providing free school lunches to children across the United States. This generous contribution comes at a time when nearly 20 million students rely on free or reduced-price meals, highlighting the critical need for such support.
Jackson's initiative seeks to alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure that every child has access to nutritious meals during school hours. "No child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from," Jackson stated in a press release. "Education is the foundation for a better future, and proper nutrition is essential for learning and development."
The donation will be distributed to various school districts and nonprofit organizations dedicated to combating child hunger. It aims to cover the cost of meals for students who are not eligible for federal assistance but still face food insecurity.
Experts agree that access to regular, healthy meals significantly improves academic performance and overall well-being. "Programs like this are vital in addressing the hunger gap that many students face," said Dr. Emily Johnson, a nutrition specialist. "Proper nutrition supports cognitive function, behavior, and physical health, all of which are crucial for a child's success in school."
Jackson's philanthropic efforts have been met with widespread praise, with many viewing his actions as a model for other athletes and public figures. "It's inspiring to see someone use their platform and resources to make a tangible difference," said community advocate Sarah Lee. "This donation will have a lasting impact on countless children and families."
As the initiative unfolds, Jackson remains committed to ensuring that no child goes hungry, reinforcing the importance of community support and collective action in addressing social issues.
Daniel Jones Earns New Nickname From NFL After 8 Games Played
Daniel Jones’ rebirth in Indianapolis has caught the attention of the entire NFL and now, he’s got a nickname to prove it.
After the Indianapolis Colts’ Week 8 win over the Tennessee Titans, the NFL’s official X account shared a post highlighting Jones’ record-setting start, showing him as the leader for “Most Points in the First 8 Games in Franchise History.”
“Indiana Dimes,” the NFL captioned as a new moniker for Jones.
Through eight games, Jones has guided the Colts to a league-best 7–1 record, throwing for 2,062 yards and 13 touchdowns and adding four scores on the ground. His 80.4 QBR ranks second in the NFL, a stat that underscores his dominance in Shane Steichen’s high-octane offense.
According to Pro Football Focus, Jones now holds a 91.8 QBR when pressured, the highest ever recorded since the metric began in 2006. That number surpasses Josh Allen’s previous record of 83.5 from his 2024 MVP season.
“Daniel is playing with total command,” one Colts insider said. “He’s calm when things break down, he’s decisive, and he’s delivering strikes in big moments.”
That composure was on full display against the Titans. Jones completed 21 of 29 passes for 272 yards and three touchdowns, spreading the ball efficiently among his receivers Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs and Jonathan Taylor, who also added a touchdown catch.
His play has not only lifted the Colts to the top of the AFC standings but has also revived his career narrative. Once labeled a draft disappointment for the New York Giants, Jones is now a symbol of resilience and adaptation.
Colts’ Offense Clicking Behind Jones and Taylor
Running back Jonathan Taylor has been the perfect partner in crime. Against Tennessee, Taylor needed just 12 carries to rush for 153 yards and three touchdowns, while also catching one from Jones.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Indianapolis plans to keep Jones beyond his current one-year deal.
“The Colts want this [Jones era] to continue beyond this year,” Rapoport reported. “They have interest in bringing Daniel Jones back on a long-term deal after the 2025 season.”
It’s a dramatic shift from where Jones stood just a year ago. After being released by the Giants and spending a short stint in Minnesota, few expected him to headline MVP conversations again. But with the Colts, Jones has rewritten his story and the scoreboard.
