A college football national champion is spreading holiday cheer to families in his hometown of Plainfield, Illinois. Tyler Morris, a 2022 graduate of Plainfield East High School and a University of Michigan national champion wide receiver, donated $3,000 in gift cards to District 202 schools. This generous contribution, funded by his name, image, and likeness (NIL) earnings, benefited over 40 families in need.
Speaking with ABC7, Tyler explained his motivation: “It makes me feel great, because life can be hard sometimes, and you know, around the holiday season. Just to be able to help a kid get a gift and families get necessities or food or anything else they need.” His mother, Shirley Morris, a social worker in the district, added, “There’s a ton of families that need help. You think that we are in a pretty nice area that doesn’t need the help, but there are definitely families that are struggling all year round, but the holidays especially.”
The gift cards will assist families with purchasing food, essential items, and holiday gifts. Currently, Tyler is exploring his options in the college football transfer portal.