Pulisic rewards young U.S. fan who donated prize jersey to Puerto Rico charity

Ben Valentine

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Pulisic rewards young U.S. fan who donated prize jersey to Puerto Rico charity image

Seven-year-old Alex Idarra wanted to help the people of Puerto Rico any way he could. If that meant parting with a signed Christian Pulisic jersey in order to aid those in need, so be it. And his efforts did not go unnoticed.

The U.S. territory of Puerto Rico was recently hit by Hurricane Maria, which has left the vast majority of the population without electricity and many on the island without food and drinking water.

Relief efforts continue, but Alex wished to contribute in his own way — by raising money by selling one of his prized possessions.

Alex offered up a signed Christian Pulisic Borussia Dortmund shirt for raffle , with an accompanying video message.

“I’m raffling it off because I’m trying to raise money for the Puerto Ricans that don’t have food and water,” Alex said. “Puerto Rico’s really important to me because they’re one of our territories.”

Alex and the Oakland chapter of the U.S. fan group the American Outlaws raised over $3,000 for disaster relief.

Word eventually got back to Pulisic, who sent Alex both a video message thanking him for his inspiring efforts and also a signed, game-worn jersey from the U.S. 4-0 victory against Panama, during which the teen star delivered a goal and an assist.

Pulisic also said he make a donation to relief efforts in Puerto Rico.

As you might expect, Alex was pretty happy upon hearing from Pulisic.

Pulisic and the U.S. aim to secure World Cup 2018 qualification on Tuesday when they face Trinidad and Tobago. A victory away to the Soca Warriors will guarantee the U.S. will take part in the 2018 finals.

Ben Valentine