It takes a village.
That's what the Vancouver Whitecaps have been saying throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and they've backed those words up with action to help their community. After raising $1.2 million (Canadian) in sales of co-branded face masks to help save the Vancouver Aquarium, the club are back with another collaboration.
Local artist Carson Ting volunteered to create a limited edition illustration commemorating how the people of Vancouver all cheer for the city's frontline workers at 7 pm every night. All proceeds will go to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.
"This initiative began with a simple objective," Whitecaps director of events and fan experience Jon Rees told reporters on a video conference call. "We wanted to pay tribute to frontline heroes of our city and use our platform to raise money for those in need. "
Added Ting: "Being able to use my skillset for a great cause, and to collaborate with the Whitecaps, is a dream come true, for sure."
The prints can be purchased here, through the Whitecaps' website.
Due to the pandemic, the Greater Vancouver Food Bank is currently receiving more demands than normal. It has been providing food support since 1983.
"I think this is the most support we've given to our community," Russell Teibert said. "We already held ourselves to a really high standard in trying to be part of the community and support the community, but this is a really troubling time. We understand that the people of our community are in need. The club have done everything in every aspect to step up to the plate and deliver."
