Riot Games donates huge amount to coronavirus relief in LA

In a significant demonstration of corporate social responsibility, Riot Games orchestrated a comprehensive $1.5 million relief package addressing critical COVID-19 needs throughout Los Angeles.

During Tuesday’s press briefing, Mayor Eric Garcetti detailed the allocation structure: $500,000 from Riot Games corporate funds, matched by individual $500,000 contributions from co-founders Brandon Beck and Marc Merill, creating one of the largest gaming industry relief funds.

The strategic distribution channels include $400,000 directed to the Los Angeles Food Bank, building upon Riot’s established partnership through previous fundraising initiatives. An additional $200,000 supports the Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles, specifically targeting healthcare cost supplementation, childcare support, and senior meal programs. The remaining $900,000 will be distributed across multiple Los Angeles county nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable populations.

“We are fortunate in Los Angeles to host industries that drive not only municipal but national and global economic growth. The gaming sector represents one such industry, with Riot Games positioned as a prominent leader within this space,” Mayor Garcetti emphasized during the announcement.

The mayor lightened the mood by noting many residents have likely been engaging with League of Legends during their extended home stays.

Beyond financial contributions, Riot Games committed to assisting the city in sourcing critical medical equipment for hospital personnel, including protective face masks essential for safeguarding frontline medical teams.

Despite transitioning to remote operations, Riot maintained full employment for janitorial, facilities management, and food service teams, demonstrating comprehensive workforce protection.

“Recognizing this period creates significant pressure for working families throughout our area, Riot Games remains dedicated to properly supporting its employees,” Garcetti affirmed.

Riot Games indicated they would “persist in assessing” additional methods to provide assistance throughout this global health emergency.

“Los Angeles has consistently served as Riot’s headquarters, and local residents constitute an indispensable component of our achievements. We take pride in contributing to our community during these challenging circumstances,” the company statement read.

This substantial $1.5 million contribution represents the most significant financial commitment from the esports community to date. However, numerous organizations, professional competitors, and content creators have independently organized support initiatives. Notable contributions include Sang-hyeok “Faker” Lee and fellow South Korean esports professionals donating to coronavirus assistance charities. Team Liquid currently operates a week-long charity streaming event, while their creators and players have organized individual fundraising efforts throughout recent weeks. Dota 2 tournament coordinator WePlay! conducted a charitable event earlier this month.

The coronavirus outbreak has profoundly affected the esports ecosystem, resulting in nearly all scheduled live competitions being postponed or canceled. Continuing tournaments, including the LCS and LEC, have transitioned to exclusively online formats to maintain competitive integrity while ensuring participant safety.

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