Utah Jazz Foundation will fund 32,200 nights of housing for refugees

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Jazz Foundation announced Wednesday a donation to the ongoing efforts by Airbnb.org to provide housing to refugees fleeing Ukraine.

The Utah Jazz Foundation’s donation will fund 32,200 nights of lodging for those refugees from Ukraine, which is nearly double the size of the Jazz home arena – Vivint Smart Home Arena. 

“Connection and community have never been more important than it is today. Millions of people have been forced to leave behind their entire lives in Ukraine. Airbnb.org is connecting host families with refugees in need, creating safe havens when so many communities are being torn apart,” said Ryan Smith, executive chairman and co-founder of Qualtrics and owner of the Utah Jazz, in a press release. “The Utah Jazz Foundation is honored to partner with Airbnb.org to fund stays for refugees who have fled Ukraine – enough to fill every seat right here in our own house—Vivint Arena—nearly two times over. And we can’t stop there. I encourage every organization to support Airbnb.org’s important initiative, to magnify their impact and house enough refugees to fill their arenas or workplaces.”

Airbnb.org announced last week it’s commitment to provide short-term, free housing to up to 100,000 people fleeing Ukraine. 

“I cannot begin to express my thanks to the Utah Jazz Foundation for their support of Airbnb.org’s work. This incredible commitment will play a meaningful role in helping us meet our goal of providing free, temporary housing to 100,000 refugees fleeing Ukraine – offering not only a roof over their heads, but also a safe place to gather and regroup,” said Joe Gebbia, Airbnb co-founder and chairman of Airbnb.org, in a press release.

Real more:

• Local violinist to perform Ukrainian national anthem at tonight’s Jazz game
• State, business leaders announce donation drive to help Ukraine refugees

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