Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young has cancelled more than $1 million in medical debt for families in the city.
The second-year NBA star said it's his way of giving back to the city for welcoming him.
“The city of Atlanta has welcomed me with open arms,” the 21-year-old told WSB-TV. “Giving back to this community is extremely important to me. I hope these families can find a bit of relief knowing that their bills have been taken care of as we enter the New Year.”
According to Fox 5, Young partnered with nonprofit group RIP Medical and erased the debt of 570 people. The star guard donated $10,000 through the Trae Young Foundation to help cancel the debt of $1,059,186.39. In addition to getting debt relief, each person will also getting a personal letter from the NBA star.
"Blessed to have such a Great Team around me to help me make this happen," the Hawks guard tweeted.
Blessed to have such a Great Team around me to help me make this happen!!
For the A❤️ #MakeADifference
https://t.co/EIAFDN9ViR— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) January 8, 2020
Young's dad, Rayford, spoke with TMZ and said his son understands the struggle because his family was in medical debt before he made it to the league.
"[Young] understands where he came from," Rayford said. "He understands everyone is not in a position he's in."
The former Oklahoma Sooner also donated $25,000 for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts in September. In addition to making donations, the 21-year-old has set up the Trae Young Foundation to increase awareness of mental health problems.
"With continued education and research, The Trae Young Foundation will inspire and help make a positive impact to all children and adults from all walks of life who suffer from Mental Health problems," the website states.
In August, Young surprised a fan by giving him a new computer and school supplies.
“I want people to remember and think of me as someone who is more than just basketball, just someone who likes to shoot threes and pass the ball,” Young told The Journal Record last year. “Someone who is big on community, big on family, big into my faith – just someone who is different. I want to be someone who you don’t see a lot of. And hope I change the community and make more people like me who want to give back and make it about others before themselves.”
After averaging 19.1 points and 8.1 assists per game in his rookie year, the Hawks guard is now averaging 28.9 points and 8.4 assists, according to Bleacher Report.