Former Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin gives kids across Indianapolis a free meal | Inspiring Indiana

More than 700 children across the five Boys and Girls Clubs in Indianapolis received a special pizza party.

INDIANAPOLIS — Hundreds of kids across Indianapolis received a free meal on Friday thanks to a former Colts player. 

Former Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin joined members of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Indianapolis to present a check on behalf of the “Tackles for Hunger Campaign,” an initiative addressing food insecurity across the city.

The event was held April 10 at the Lilly Boys and Girls Club located at 801 South State Avenue on the city’s east side. 

The “Tackles for Hunger Campaign” saw Franklin, along with Shelice’s Angels Foundation, pledge $44 for each tackle made throughout the NFL season. Coca-Cola Consolidated matched each $44 pledge. 

This year, organizers say Franklin raised $15,000 through the program.

As part of the campaign, more than 700 children across the five Boys and Girls Clubs in Indianapolis received a special pizza party. Hot Box Pizza provided the pizzas, Rita’s Italian Ice provided frozen treats and Coca-Cola provided beverages for the party.