Devils co-founders make six-figure donation to Newark’s grocery program amid coronavirus
Co-founders of the company that owns the New Jersey Devils gave a six-figure donation to Newark for a program that provides groceries to city families in need during the coronavirus pandemic.
The donation comes from Josh Harris and David Blitzer, co-founders of Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE), and the Devils Care Foundation. The city and a spokesman for HBSE declined to disclose the dollar amount that was contributed.
“This food relief program, which will benefit thousands of families in Newark, would not have been possible without a critical donation from Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) and the New Jersey Devils,” said Newark Mayor Ras Baraka in a statement.
The mayor hopes the company’s donation will inspire other business leaders in Newark and the state to make similar contributions to keep families safe and healthy as communities combat the virus.
Baraka has put out a call to corporate leaders to contribute to a $6 million fund the city created to help the homeless, small businesses and residents negatively impacted by the coronavirus.
The city’s program gives gift cards to residents and shopping assistance for those who need groceries delivered. Gift cards are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Residents can call (973) 733-5728 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for more information about obtaining the gift cards.