The holidays are a time for giving back, for sharing with others, for showing kindness and helping those who might need a hand.
Arthur Moats checked all of those boxes when he took 20 teens from the LaRosa Boys & Girls Club in McKeesport, Pa. shopping at American Eagle Outfitters for apparel they otherwise wouldn't be able to have, providing each of the kids with a $200 gift card.
In celebration of the upcoming holidays, Steelers linebacker Arthur Moats took 20 kids from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western PA shopping for much needed clothing and accessories.
"It's something I did early on in my career, a way to give back," said Moats. "I love to do Christmas shopping. More than likely these kids aren't going to be able to have a great Christmas. Being able to give back like this is fun. I love to see their faces. I love the smiles and the excitement they show. The interaction is great."
Moats, who was joined by teammates Bud Dupree, Ryan Shazier, Jordan Dangerfield, Caushaud Lyons and Al-Hajj Shabazz, definitely had plenty of interaction with the kids. He helped them pick out clothes, gave fashion advice, helped rate who made the best purchases and got to know the kids as they all laughed and shared smiles.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for these kids," said Jim Barry, executive vice president of the Boys & Girls Club of Western Pa. "Oftentimes we get the opportunity to get shopping sprees with young kids, but it's never this age group. They are very excited. These clothes will mean a lot to them. They couldn't grasp that somebody was so generous that doesn't know them would give them a gift card to get whatever they wanted. They are very appreciative of the opportunity."
The teens ranged from ages 12-20, and it is often an age group that doesn't get to experience things like this.
"It's a great opportunity for kids who aren't fortunate enough to do this with their parents and to have this opportunity in general," said Stephen McGhen, who enjoyed shopping with the players. "It's a weird feeling. Everything costs money. I am used to paying for things, not someone else. It's very special he is doing this. He is a kind hearted man. He is very nice for doing this for everybody. I think he understands where he came from and he wants to give back to the community."
Moats' family, including his wife Shonda and three children, were also on hand as he wanted to share the importance of giving back with them.
"We take pride in giving," said Moats. "It's all about giving. It's about giving to make the most impact. That is what we want to accomplish. It's something my daughters really understand and get excited about. They know it's time to take the kids Christmas shopping."
