NFL, NFLPA to Donate $1M to Red Cross for Sandy Relief

League and its TV partners will promote donations with pregame and in-game messages

By Tim Baysinger -- Broadcasting & Cable, 11/1/2012 3:46:41 PM

The NFL and the NFL Players Association have pledged to donate $1 million to the American Red Cross to assist with Hurricane Sandy relief and recovery efforts.

In addition, the NFL and its network television partners will run pregame and in-game messages and mentions to promote donations during this weekend's games, beginning with Thursday's game on NFL Network. A crawl on the bottom of the screen will point fans to the American Red Cross website and a text-to-give line.

The league will also recognize those impacted and salute first responders prior to the National Anthem before each game.

"We are pleased that NFL owners and players have joined together once again to support communities and families impacted by Hurricane Sandy," said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith, in a joint statement. "This contribution on behalf of all 32 clubs and players throughout the league will help the American Red Cross assist people in need in the affected areas. We salute the dedication of those who have been working so hard on the rescue, relief and recovery effort."