Eagles Autism Foundation Raises $6.2 Million in Sixth Annual Event

The Philadelphia Eagles' showcase event has now raied $22 million for autism research and care programs in six years.

The Eagles Autism Foundation continues to astonish, raising a record $6.2 million for cutting-edge autism research and care programs on Saturday.

It’s a number that will likely grow even higher since fundraising will continue to run through May 31. The one-day total, however, came courtesy of 4,500 participants and 27,272 donations from around the world.

The participants were able to walk, run, and meet Eagles players, cheerleaders, and their mascot, Swoop. The starting point was Lincoln Financial Field, and those who attended braved off-and-on rain showers.

There was a scare when receiver A.J. Brown was knocked off his bike by a motorist who ran a stop sign. Brown was OK.

The challenge has raised $22M since it began six years ago.

“On behalf of the Philadelphia Eagles, I would like to thank our supporters worldwide for contributing to what was truly a record-setting year for the Eagles Autism Challenge,” said Jeffrey Lurie, Chairman, and CEO, Philadelphia Eagles, in a statement.

“Our collective effort is going to transform the lives of those with autism today and for generations to come. The progress we have made over the past six years would not have been possible without the help of our loyal participants, the generosity of our donors, Eagles fans, players, coaches, and staff.

“(Saturday) was an example of the unifying power we have as a community to advance autism research and assist the individuals and families affected by autism everywhere.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in 36 people living in the United States are on the autism spectrum. 

While it has become one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the country, it has historically been underfunded, misunderstood, and under-researched. Since launching in May 2018, the Eagles Autism Challenge has funded 83 research projects and community grants that specialize in treating and caring for individuals and families affected by autism.

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Ed Kracz covers the Philadelphia Eagles for SI's EaglesToday.

Please follow him and our Eagles coverage on Twitter at @kracze.

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