Ben Simmons announced on Friday that he’s launched “The Philly Pledge,” which encourages Philadelphians to donate to two local organizations, Philabundance and the PHL COVID-19 Fund, helping with coronavirus relief.

Philabundance is a hunger relief organization, and the PHL COVID-19 Fund aims to “help our nonprofit community navigate near-and longer-term challenges from COVID-19 and ensure that critical resources remain available for those in our community who need it most.”

Mayor Jim Kenney commended Simmons for the initiative.

I also applaud and thank the Sixers' @BenSimmons25, who is using his influence, voice, resources, and compassion to launch @ThePhillyPledge.



Ben is calling on Philadelphians to support both the #PHLCOVID19FUND and @Philabundance.#ThankYouPhillyhttps://t.co/HOIDP9mKJ6 — Jim #StayHomePHL Kenney (@PhillyMayor) March 27, 2020

“At a time like this, it is important and inspiring to see our city come together, and for celebrities such as Ben [to use] their platforms to spread messages of unity and generosity toward each other,” Kenney said Friday at a press conference.

Joel Embiid has pledged to donate $500,000 to COVID-19 medical relief efforts.

Sixers limited partner Michael Rubin said Thursday that his company Fanatics aims to produce a million masks and gowns for hospital and emergency healthcare workers.

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