Indianapolis, IN – Pro Bowl Linebacker Zaire Franklin, in partnership with Coca-Cola Consolidated, Rita’s Italian Ice of McCordsville, and Hot Box Pizza, today announced the launch of the Tackles for Hunger Campaign, an initiative dedicated to supporting local youth and addressing food insecurity in Indianapolis.
"Growing up, I knew what it was like to need a little extra support," said Franklin. "The Tackles for Hunger Campaign is about more than providing meals—it’s about showing kids that they are valued, cared for, and supported by their community."
“It is an honor for the Boys and Girls Club of Indianapolis to be included in the work Zaire is doing,” stated Maggie A. Lewis, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Indianapolis. “Hunger is best solved at the neighborhood level, and we are proud to be a partner in supporting Indianapolis youth.”
As part of the campaign, more than 600–700 children across five Boys & Girls Clubs in Indianapolis will be celebrated with a special Pizza & Dessert Party. Each child will enjoy pizza from Hot Box Pizza, beverages provided by Coca-Cola Consolidated, and frozen treats from Rita’s Italian Ice of McCordsville.
"As the local bottler in the Indianapolis area, we believe that by coming together with community partners, we can continue to serve and provide resources for the children right here where we work and live," said Mandi Snyder, Community Relations Manager for Coca-Cola Consolidated.
The Tackles for Hunger Campaign is fueled by a per-tackle donation pledge throughout the NFL regular season, reinforcing the impact Franklin and his partners can make off the field:
•
Zaire Franklin / Shelice’s Angels Foundation pledges $44 per tackle.
•
Coca-Cola Consolidated will match Franklin’s pledge with an additional $44 per tackle.
"This campaign highlights the impact that’s possible when athletes and local businesses come together with a shared vision," said Eric Taylor, Franklin’s business partner. "Tackles for Hunger is just the beginning of what we can accomplish for kids across Indianapolis."
The Tackles for Hunger Campaign underscores the power of collaboration among athletes, local businesses, and community organizations—working together to tackle food insecurity and bring joy to children who need it most.
For More Information:
Learn More
Stay Informed, Stay Competitive
Unlock the articles, expert interviews, and data reports that power the food and beverage industry. Join our community and stay ahead with exclusive insights from BevNET and Nosh.