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Ben Roethlisberger Foundation Donates Massive Sum to Help K-9 Unit Training Programs

National Football League superstar quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is giving back to his supporters by providing financial aid.

The long-time Pittsburgh Steelers point man is targeting law enforcement, specifically K-9 units, and providing assistance. The quarterback established the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation to provide financial grants to law enforcement departments across the country. With these grants, Roethlisberger hopes to boost training programs for K-9 units and canine assistance. The quarterback will provide nearly $1 million in grant funding to police departments working in the United States. The aim of the grant money to strengthen training protocols for departments utilizing K-9 officers.

In a press release from Ben Roethlisberger earlier this week, the quarterback says he is thrilled to assist local and national police departments. Roethlisberger’s charity will distribute grant funding to 15 police and fire K-9 programs around the U.S.

“It has been an absolute privilege to be able to support the critical work of K-9 officers and their handlers over the past 14 years,” Ben Roethlisberger says. “To witness the bond between a dog and their handler has been very rewarding. Their lifesaving and crimefighting give ‘teamwork’ new meaning. They are true partners! I have many fond memories of meeting first responders on the field and in our communities and I want to thank them for their dedication and sacrifice.”

Ben Roethlisberger Foundation Distributes Big Bucks

It will be the 14th and final round of grants from the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation. Since 2007, the foundation has distributed More than $2.3 million in grant funding with a majority benefitting law enforcement K-9 program.

According to the press release, grant funds will be utilized in a variety of canine-focused initiatives. This includes the establishment of new K-9 units, replacement of retiring dogs, purchase of safety and training equipment and training and certification of new and existing K-9s among other K-9 related expenses.

Now 39-years-old, Ben Roethlisberger is still playing at a high level for the Pittsburgh Steelers. There are questions surrounding just how much longer he will play but he did have an excellent 2020 season. During the pandemic-plagued season, Big Ben threw for 33 touchdowns to just 10 interceptions. He guided his team to the playoffs but fell to the division rivals, the Cleveland Browns, in the first round. In the wild card game loss, he completed 47 passes, an NFL record for completions in a single game. He also threw four interceptions in the loss to the Browns.

Ben Roethlisberger is currently preparing for the upcoming 2021 season that will arrive later this year.