Week 5 Community MVP: Eddie Lacy, Green Bay Packers Running Back

When Hurricane Katrina crashed through the Louisiana levees in 2005, the life that Eddie Lacy once knew was swallowed up during the nightmarish aftermath. Gone was the house that he and his family had in Gretna, forcing them to bounce between shelters and states while searching for some sense of stability.  

It wasn’t until Lacy was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2013 that he was able to help his family get back on its feet and make good on his promise to build them a new home. Now, the fourth-year running back is on a mission to ensure other families don’t have to endure a similar heartache.

On Oct. 10, Lacy hosted a bowling fundraiser for Freedom House, an organization that provides emergency services for families in need. The event marked the second straight year that Lacy has raised benefits for Freedom House, demonstrating a commitment to outreach that makes him a fitting honoree as the Week 5 NFLPA Community MVP. 

“I feel like I can relate to people in those situations because I was once there myself,” Lacy said. “To be able to give back to people is definitely a great deed.” 

Several Green Bay companies purchased lanes at The Gutter in Suamico to support Lacy in his efforts to raise funds for the local Freedom House, which supports families in Brown County. Guests were able to bowl for prizes, partake in a raffle and meet Lacy along with several of his Packers teammates, including Randall Cobb, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, David Bakhtiari, Damarious Randall, Davonte Adams and Mike Pennell. 

The fundraiser built upon the work Lacy started last year with Freedom House, when he helped organized a food and clothing drive throughout the state of Wisconsin. The Pro Bowler then took the items and donated them, along with $5,000, during a surprise visit to the local Freedom House. Since then, Lacy has served as an honorary board member for Freedom House. 

“It makes me feel good because I’m able to give back,” Lacy said.