Buffalo Bills: Marcell Dareus Partnering With Hope for Haiti
By Ryan Brennan
Buffalo Bills’ star defensive tackle Marcell Dareus will be teaming up with Hope for Haiti as he continues to give back to those in need.
It’s becoming a trend with Marcell Dareus. The Buffalo Bills‘ defensive tackle has found a new hobby off the field with his charity work and it continues to inspire fans and groups around the world. This time, Dareus will be partnering with Hope for Haiti, a U.S.-based charity, to help Haitian families in need.
In addition to a $25,000 donation to the charity, Marcell Dareus will be taking a humanitarian trip to Haiti to further show his appreciation for his community. Included in the trip to Haiti, Dareus will be visiting several schools and orphanages throughout the country to see exactly where his money is going and what it will be used for.
“I’m happy that I’m able to partner with Hope for Haiti, which is giving me the opportunity to meet and understand the people who are benefiting from my support,” said Marcell Dareus.
He will also visit a medical primary care facility to give him a first-hand view of his donations at work. All in all, Dareus will visit over 1,500 local Haitian children and, of course, will be passing out sailor hats to all the children. In case you’re unaware, that’s kind of Dareus’ thing — he likes sailor hats.
The trip — and donation — mean a lot to Marcell Dareus, who’s father was born in Haiti and lived there until his early adulthood. His father would later pass away when Dareus was just nine years old. The trip to Haiti will be a special one, giving him a chance to witness his true roots and help those in need.
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"“I love giving back, especially to kids in need, but this is extra special because I’ve never been on a trip like this before. The Haitian people have seen hardship after hardship, with the earthquake and then the hurricane. Being able to meet with them and show them that I care about them is really important to me,” Marcell Dareus said in a press release statement."
Dareus also opened up about his father, noting that this trip will not only fulfill a lifelong dream, but will also be eye-opening from a variety of angles.
"“My dad grew up in Haiti and I always hoped I would make it there some day,” continued Dareus. “Although my dad died when I was younger, I’m lucky to have other family here in the states that have told me stories since I was a kid about life in Haiti. Being in a position to not only visit, but also make a donation that will really impact Haitian kids and their families is a great feeling. I know it will be an eye-opening trip.”"
Hope for Haiti has been helping Haitian families in need for over 28 years and continues to show excellence in that category. Focused on the five key ares for long-term growth — Education, Health Care, Water, Infrastructure and Economy — HFH is glad to be partnering with Marcell Dareus for this trip and are more than thankful for his donation.
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The CEO of Hope for Haiti, Skylar Badenoch, outlined their excitement for the trip with Dareus:
"“We are inspired by the generosity of Marcell Dareus and the Dareus Foundation for their investment in the Haitian people,” said Skyler Badenoch. “Without the support of investors like Marcell, Hope for Haiti’s work would not be possible. We are so grateful, and we look forward to making an immediate and lasting impact together.”"
For Dareus, giving back is nothing new. With the holiday’s in full force just a couple of months ago, Marcell Dareus made it a mission to give back as much as possible — all while the season was in full-swing. In case you missed any of his other charity events, here’s a recap of what he’s been up to:
Dareus Teams Up With Boys & Girls Club for Halloween
Dareus Hands Out Thanksgiving Meals to Buffalo and Birmingham Communities
Dareus Hosts 2nd Annual Christmas Party, Gives Gifts to Children and Dresses Up as Santa
December 23rd is Declared ‘Marcell Dareus Day’ in Buffalo
After missing most of last season to a suspension and injury, Dareus is ready to come out in full force next season. It looks like he’s ready to put the past behind him and move forward with a successful NFL career with the Buffalo Bills.
His partnering with Hope for Haiti should continue to win the hearts of the fans back. These types of stories are what make #BillsMafia one of the best organizations in the NFL.
Thank you for all you do, Marcell Dareus. You’re inspiring people everywhere to give back and spread love.
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