The 33rd Annual Gridiron Gala scored big last night and raised $2.6M with United Way of New York City.
An uplifting moment, the beloved fundraiser took some of the city’s best and brightest and recognized them for their incredible dedication to helping those most vulnerable and in need in our town.
(Courtesy Gridiron Gala)
From bright smiles and cheers, every second at the gala was meant to showcase what true giving back to society means. Goodwill and faith in humanity was on full display. This year’s gala shone a light on the city’s affordability crisis, highlighting real stories of citizen and the growing gap between what families earn and what it takes to live in New York City.
Today, more than half of all New York City households — 56%, representing approximately 4.7 million people — struggle to afford basic needs such as housing, childcare, healthcare, transportation, and food. These are stats that were addressed and given a game plan on how to win over the situation.
(Courtesy Gridiron Gala)
Hearts of champions brought into the light here showed what true warriors look like – on and off the field. With an assist from the New York Giants and New York Jets it showed that we all can pitch in and help improve humanity.
New York Giants Outside Linebacker Brian Burns, New York Jets Defensive Lineman Harrison Phillips, Partnership for New York City Former President and CEO Kathryn Wylde, and Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. President Chris Perry, all of whom have dedicated their time to advancing access and opportunities for under-resourced New Yorkers were honored. Applause for them was strong. It was a sound that inspired.
“No one organization can tackle New York City’s affordability crisis alone — it takes an entire team,” said United Way of New York City President and CEO Grace Bonilla. “We are deeply grateful to the New York Giants, the New York Jets, our honorees, and all of our partners who continue to step up for New Yorkers. Today, 56% of New Yorkers — including many hardworking families we call ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — cannot meet their basic needs. Just like in football, creating real progress takes coordination, partnership, and everyone moving the ball forward together. The funds raised through this year’s gala will help deliver critical services and long-term opportunities that strengthen communities and improve lives across our city.”
The event was hosted by United Way of New York City Board Member, ESPN Radio Host & New York Giants Alumni Chris Canty, and Tina Cervasio, seven-time New York Emmy Award winning sports reporter, with a performance by Broadway singer and actor Norm Lewis.
Here is to the champion changemakers of The Big Apple.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 12: Norm Lewis performs on stage during 2026 Gridiron Gala at New York Hilton Midtown on May 12, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for United Way of New York City)
Gridiron Gala is supported by BMO, CBRE, Sidley Austin LLP, American Express, Broadridge Financial Solutions, Deloitte, IBM, Alliant Insurance Services, LLC, EY, Hearst, NFL, Oxford & Simpson, STO Building, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, Cushman & Wakefield, Inc., Mayer Brown LLP, National Grid, AON, Chris Canty Foundation, BraunHagey & Borden LLP, Brookfield, CommonWealth Partners , Driscoll Foods, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP, Gardiner & Theobald, Gibson Dunn, JPMorganChase, Jones Lang LaSalle, KPMG LLP, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, PwC, Saxe Doernberger & Vita, P.C., Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, Skanska USA Building, Inc., The Baldwin Group, Turner Construction, WTW, among others.
To learn more about the Gridiron Gala or to support, please visit: unitedwaynyc.org/gridirongala.