Embiid is one of the best players in the NBA at the moment, posting 905 points, 348 rebounds, and 41 blocks in the first 30 games of the 2020-2021 season, but it is his devotion to his community off the court that sets him apart from the rest.

“So many have fallen on such hard times during the pandemic,” Embiid said in a statement released by the team announcing his donation. “I felt it was important to provide more support for individuals and families struggling with homelessness and food insecurity. I’m continually grateful for all of the support that Philadelphia and the fans have given me not just around All-Star but all my years in the league. I will continue to help in any way I can.”

He has split his donation between Project HOME, Sunday Breakfast Mission, and Youth Service Inc, and the impact that the money will have is staggering. With $100,000, he will provide:

• • 15,000 meals for homeless individuals
• • 4,000 essential clothing items donated to teens and adults
• • Care and treatment of 1,000 individuals receiving the COVID-19 vaccine
• • Support for 30+ formerly homeless families which includes education, health care, and employment
• • Funding for an entire six-week summer camp for 50+ homeless and at-risk youth
• • Shelter and essential needs for over 300 teens facing homelessness

That, along with the $100,000 that the Sixers organization has pledged to donate, will have an enormous impact on the Philadelphia homeless community. 

On the court, Embiid’s average of 30.2 points a game has led Philadelphia to end the first half of the season with the best record in the Eastern Conference, a half-game better than the Brooklyn Nets.