Roquan Smith and Teammates Spread Holiday Cheer with Surprise Shopping Spree

On Monday, Dec 11, 2024, the spirit of giving was alive and well in Owings Mills, as Roquan Smith, together with his Baltimore Ravens teammates, turned an ordinary day into an extraordinary one for the children from Bridges, a local foundation dedicated to the long-term success of Baltimore's youth. The venue was a bustling Target store, where unsuspecting kids were greeted by the NFL stars for a heartwarming holiday surprise.

Photo courtesy of WMAR ABC Baltimore

Each child was given a $200 shopping spree, a gift they knew nothing about until Roquan Smith himself broke the exciting news. The joy and surprise on their faces were a sight to behold, embodying the true essence of the holiday season. "Seeing the smiles on their faces and knowing they were super surprised, it's been great," shared Ysem Brown, director of Bridges.

Funded by the Roquan Smith Foundation and the Baltimore Ravens, this 18th annual Holiday Helpers event saw kids paired with players like Justin Tucker, Zay Flowers, and Odafe Oweh, who guided them through the aisles, helping pick out gifts not just for themselves but for others too, instilling the value of giving back.

Roquan, a nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, reflected on the importance of making a difference. "I do what I do because I truly care about making an impact in the community," he said. This event wasn't just about the gifts; it was a lesson in generosity, community, and the joy of giving, making the holidays brighter for everyone involved.