Pelicans owner Benson donates $1M to create 2 coronavirus support funds

Pelicans and Saints owner Gayle Benson is donating $1 million to create a pair of funds to support the New Orleans community and arena workers during the coronavirus outbreak, the Pelicans announced Monday.

In addition to establishing the Gayle Benson Community Assistance Fund, which will be administered by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, Benson is also setting up the Arena Assistance Fund to help workers impacted by the suspension of the NBA season.

"We have been meeting and planning a response since the NBA's announcement to suspend games. Our meaningful discussions have led to what we believe is the most impactful way to best serve the needs of our community as a whole," Benson said in a statement. She added: "We want to do our part to assist those that have been impacted in our community."

Pelicans employees scheduled to work game days throughout the remainder of the regular season will also have their wages guaranteed.

Benson's contributions were announced three days after Pelicans star rookie Zion Williamson pledged to cover the salaries of Smoothie King Center arena staff for the next 30 days.