Bryan Rust, Marcus Pettersson, and Zach Aston-Reese are doing what they can to support the Pittsburgh community during the coronavirus outbreak.
The three players bought 500 pizzas from Fox's Pizza Den, which were then delivered to community distribution centers in the Hill District and on the Northside. The donations benefitted organizations that feed children and families in the community who typically rely on schools or other organizations that have been impacted by the shutdowns.
"We are proud that Bryan, Marcus and Zach stepped forward in this way to assist members of our community," said Penguins president and CEO David Morehouse in a team release. "During these challenging times, it's important for all of us to come together in support of those impacted by the coronavirus pandemic."
"On behalf of the Hill District and the Center that Cares' staff and families, words can't adequately express our appreciation for the Penguins family's continuous support of the Hill," said Rev. Glenn G. Grayson Sr., CEO of the Jeron X. Grayson Community Center, one of the organizations benefitting from the donations. "As our families enjoy these pizza meals, I believe it will resonate that we are stronger together."
"This is a fantastic opportunity for people to know that our neighbor and hometown team is with us at this stressful and dangerous time," said Fr. Paul Abernathy, CEO of the Neighborhood Resilience Project.
"Despite the devastating effects the coronavirus (COVID-19) has had on our communities, we are proud to see our neighbors and the Penguins come together and serve families in need," said Chef Claudy Pierre, founder of The EAT Initiative.