GOOD NEWS: Philadelphia Eagles’ DeVonta Smith and His Family Use Entire $2,000 Bonus and Plane Ticket to Sponsor 9-Year-Old Girl Abandoned at Airport

Philadelphia, PA – May 27, 2025 — In an inspiring act of compassion, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith and his family have captured national attention — not for a game-winning touchdown, but for offering hope to a child in need. The Smith family used DeVonta’s entire $2,000 performance bonus, along with a plane ticket, to sponsor a 9-year-old girl who was recently abandoned by her family at a Pennsylvania airport.

The girl, identified as Amina (name changed for privacy), was found alone near the departure gates at Philadelphia International Airport with a small backpack and a note. The message, scrawled in simple handwriting, explained that her family could no longer care for her and asked that someone “give her a better future.”

The heartbreaking story soon went viral across local news and social media. It reached the attention of DeVonta Smith and his mother, Christina, who were both deeply moved by Amina’s situation. Within hours, they contacted child services to see how they could help — and what happened next restored faith in humanity.

“We knew right away that this wasn’t something we could ignore,” DeVonta said. “That bonus might not mean a lot to most people in the NFL, but for her, it could be the start of something new.”

From NFL Star to Lifeline for a Child

DeVonta Smith, a former Heisman Trophy winner and a key figure in the Eagles’ offense, has built a reputation for being humble and community-focused. Known for letting his actions speak louder than his words, Smith once again led by example — this time off the field.

With the help of his family, DeVonta used his entire $2,000 performance bonus to cover emergency housing, therapy, and basic necessities for Amina. But their generosity didn’t stop there — the family also purchased a plane ticket for the young girl to be safely transferred to a child trauma recovery center in upstate Pennsylvania.

A Flight Toward a Brighter Future

The center specializes in caring for children who have experienced severe emotional distress, abandonment, and trauma. Amina is now receiving counseling, medical attention, and educational support thanks to the intervention of the Smith family.

“That ticket meant more than travel,” said DeVonta’s mother, Christina. “It meant she had someone looking out for her — someone who believed she mattered.”

The Smiths have pledged to remain involved in Amina’s journey. They’ve committed to sponsoring her schooling, sending care packages, and even visiting her during off-seasons and holidays. The family is also exploring long-term mentoring or guardianship options if permitted by the courts and child welfare services.

Philadelphia Eagles Applaud Their Wide Receiver

The Philadelphia Eagles released a statement praising DeVonta for his actions:

“We’re incredibly proud of DeVonta and the Smith family. This act of compassion reflects the kind of leadership and humanity we value in our organization. He’s an outstanding player and an even better person.”

Fans quickly rallied around the story on social media, using hashtags like #SmithStepsUp and #EaglesGiveHope to share and celebrate the heartwarming gesture. Dozens of Eagles fans have even reached out to local charities to ask how they, too, can help children in need.

Experts Say Small Actions Have Big Impact

According to child welfare experts, actions like this — especially when taken by public figures — can change not only a child’s life but also the conversation around abandonment and child protection.

“When someone like DeVonta Smith steps up, it makes people pay attention,” said Dr. Rachel Carter, a child psychologist based in Philadelphia. “Amina’s story could have ended in despair. Now, thanks to this family, she has hope.”

A Human Story Beyond the Game

While DeVonta Smith is celebrated for his athleticism, it’s clear that his heart may be his most powerful asset. For Amina, the kindness of one NFL player and his family may just be the turning point she needed.

“We didn’t do it for attention,” Smith said quietly. “We did it because every child deserves to feel safe, wanted, and loved.”