Two former Panthers team up to help Charlotte fight COVID-19

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Jonathan Stewart and Steve Smith have teamed up again, only this time they aren’t making plays on the field at Bank of America Stadium, the two former Panthers are tackling COVID-19.

Panthers.com reported that Stewart and his wife, Natalie, partnered with the Steve Smith Family Foundation, Convoy of Hope and Elevation Outreach to raise $35,000 to bring an 18-wheeler filled with 40 tons of food, water and other supplies to Charlotte.

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Stewart, who still calls Charlotte home, said he wanted to use his platform to help since so many people are facing unemployment.

"Our first thought was Convoy of Hope," Stewart said of the nonprofit organization that specializes in disaster relief aid.

"They have a bunch of resources and organizations that they've partnered with to where they have access to goods and products that they're able to help assist others."

On Friday, Smith announced via Twitter that the fundraiser had met its $35,000 goal.

Once the truck delivers the goods to Charlotte, the items will be distributed through Elevation Outreach, a ministry of Elevation Church.

Stewart said he hopes the spirit of giving leaves a lasting impact on the community.

“We’re all going to need assistance from someone at some point in time in life, so why not create the culture of giving now and let it just run the test of time?” Stewart said.

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