The New Orleans Saints and the National Football League (NFL) Foundation have announced a significant commitment of $1 million to assist the victims of the tragic Bourbon Street truck attack that occurred on New Year’s Day. This horrifying incident resulted in the loss of 14 lives and left 35 others injured.

In a press release, Saints owner Gayle Benson revealed that she would personally contribute $500,000, with the NFL Foundation matching that amount. Benson expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Our community has experienced an unimaginable tragedy, and our collective hearts are broken as we mourn for the victims and survivors of the New Year’s Day terror attack in New Orleans” (The Guardian).

She emphasized the unity that the Saints and NFL share, saying, “Through football we are also united and we stand arm-in-arm against all forms of hatred.” The funds will be directed to victims through a partnership with the Greater New Orleans Foundation and United Way, ensuring that the assistance reaches those most in need.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell echoed Benson’s sentiments, affirming that the NFL stands in solidarity with the resilient community of New Orleans during this distressing period. He remarked, “Our hearts go out to all those affected by the tragic events in New Orleans” (The Hill).

The attack, perpetrated by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, involved a rented truck driven into a crowd celebrating New Year’s Eve. Authorities have classified Jabbar's actions as a terroristic act, noting he had the insignia of the Islamic State on his vehicle. In light of this tragedy, federal leaders like President Joe Biden have condemned the attack, declaring New Orleans to be a city representing joy and resilience, stating, “while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated” (The Guardian).