Hamlin’s Toy Drive Surpasses $6 Million in Donations

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has received an outpouring of support from fans, NFL players, and business leaders, who have donated $6.2 million to his charity, The Chasing M’s Foundation, through a GoFundMe campaign, Fortune reports.

The foundation, which was originally created as a toy drive for children affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Hamlin’s hometown of McRees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has now expanded its focus to include back-to-school drives and children’s camps.

Among the notable donors are Robert Kraft and the New England Patriots, who gave over $18,000, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, who pledged $12,000, Tom Brady and Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson, who both gave $10,000, and Hanold Associates Executive Search CEO Jason Hanold, who donated $20,000.

However, the sudden influx of funds has also brought increased responsibilities for the organization, including the need for more thorough bookkeeping and accountability, as well as potential tax implications.

It is unclear whether the foundation has received 501(c)(3) status, which would designate it as tax-exempt due to its charitable work.

As of Wednesday, Hamlin remains in critical condition after suffering cardiac arrest during Monday night’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

He is currently on a ventilator and sedated, and his uncle has revealed that his heart had to be restarted both on the field and when he arrived at the hospital.

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