Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN/WGR 550) - Funko and longtime NFL player Jason Kelce are teaming up to create a shirt based on a prototype Pop! figure to raise money for Oishei Children's Hospital in Buffalo.
Jason Kelce was on the "New Heights" podcast talking with his brother Travis on his shirtless appearance at the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Highmark Stadium earlier this month. It prompted Funko to come up with a prototype Pop! figure of the Kelce, in town to watch Travis and the Kansas City Chiefs defeat the Buffalo Bills.
"I talked to Funko Pop!, and they agreed to do a charitable thing," announced Jason Kelce on the podcast. "It feels weird... Having this whole situation because it was just something that kind of happened organically, it feels weird to have shirts and everything made."
Kelce says portions of the proceeds will go to the Patricia Allen Fund at Oishei Children's Hospital, choosing Western New York because, "I gotta repay the people that put me in this spot."
Oishei Children's Hospital President Dr. Stephen Turkovich issued this statement:
"On behalf of all of us at Oishei Children's Hospital we are so grateful to learn that Jason Kelce chose to support our team and the kids we care for through the Patricia Allen Fund.
"This is a true testament to the spirit of 'Bills Mafia', who originated the Patricia Allen Fund through their giving nature, inspiring others to do the same. It is because of them, and all who have joined them to support the Patricia Allen Fund, that we can recruit highly specialized talented caregivers and provide the tools, equipment, and innovative care to kids who need it.
"We welcome Jason as another member of the 50,000 plus who have supported the Patricia Allen Fund over the last few years. We are hoping to connect with Jason to thank him formally."