Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has been an outspoken critic of the lack of relief for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He decided to do something about it and started a fund to help. He donated $500,000 and challenged others on Twitter to give what they could to help.
The Barstool Fund was created on Dec. 17 and in two weeks has raised more than $12 million and helped 47 businesses.
Introducing The Barstool Fund
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) December 17, 2020
If you are a small business that needs help staying in business because of covid email us your story to barstoolfund@barstoolsports.com. We will try to help as many people as we can. pic.twitter.com/9BS8HeyHaq
Portnoy says the goal is to save as many small businesses as humanly possible.
Celebrities have been getting in on the cause, announcing their support and donations over Twitter.
Even Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Tom Brady tweeted his support and said he wanted in.
This is awesome Dave. Count me in. https://t.co/9vCFrXxocy
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) December 30, 2020
Portnoy has been posting reaction videos of the owners of these businesses after he tells them they have been selected by the fund.
Maybe my fav reaction yet from Colony French Cleaners. This is what happens when you pour your life into your business pic.twitter.com/mjPmHE7UUM
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) December 30, 2020
The idea started when New York closed indoor dining, but Portnoy says the businesses don't have to be in New York to qualify. To qualify for the fund, businesses must still be paying their employees.
For more information or to contribute to the fund, click here.