“What we’re doing is closing gaps,” a phrase strategically used in ‘From Struggle to Strength: Advancing Literacy Efforts in Oakland’. What’s that, you may ask? Well, it’s a series of short films showcasing the efforts of Eat. Learn. Play. pledged “to transform the school experience for Oakland students.”

Stephen and Ayesha Curry are no strangers to giving back. As high-profile public figures, they aren’t just writing checks and calling it a day. Instead, the power couple is involved in the local community and uses their resources to make a meaningful impact. They’ve not just focused on one thing, they’re tackling a bunch of different issues, and their latest long-term initiative is something truly special.

The Curry’s made an announcement in 2024 that jaw-dropped quite a few in the philanthropic world. Through their charitable foundation, Eat. Learn. Play., the power couple pledged the 8-figure amount. Their most recent efforts can also be witnessed in the latest video shared by the foundation’s page. “As part of a $25 million, five-year commitment, Eat. Learn. Play. will provide over 10,000 OUSD students with the reading tools and resources to succeed,” they captioned the Instagram post.

Last year, Steph signed a hefty contract extension worth more than $62 million and this philanthropic contribution was announced in less than a couple of months. It was reported at the start of this year that Ayesha’s restaurant International Smoke was shut down by the end of Jan (Las Vegas location). Regardless, the power couple stands committed to this effort, proving that they’re driven to make a change in society.

Stephen and Ayesha founded this organization back in 2019, and as of now have raised over $47 million to support the children and families in Oakland. “When we launched Eat. Learn. Play. five years ago, we set out to provide opportunities to ensure every student in Oakland had the resources they need to be healthy and thrive.”

What is Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s heartfelt initiative exactly about?

Steph and Ayesha Curry’s efforts will be channeled through their Eat. Learn. Play foundation to provide funds over 5 years, specifically targeting elementary school students who are two or more grade levels behind in their reading skills. They’ve broken it down into 3 parts: Eat, Learn, and Play. The organization’s commitment will impact approximately 10,000 children in the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD).

The $25M they’re putting toward literacy is huge! “This commitment is about more than just closing the literacy gap—it’s about giving these kids the confidence to succeed in all areas of life,” promised the power couple. They’re going to be helping thousands of kids with one-on-one tutoring, which is an absolute game-changer.

It’s just not limited to financial contributions. They’re also working to make sure kids have access to healthy food. Ayesha Curry mentioned how important nutrition is, saying, “If you’re not nourished, you don’t – your brain function is just depleted, and the rest kind of falls out of line.” It was reported, their efforts exceeded in delivering millions of meals to families in need and that’s really incredible.

Then there’s the Play part. They’re building and fixing playgrounds so kids have safe places to run around and be themselves! “We, just today, like, are finishing, like, our sixth schoolyard this year, and 15th. We have plans for over 30 more over the next several years, 11 more planned by the end of 2026,” Ayesha shared.

The couple is inspiring and they’re leading by example- how one can use their platform to make a real difference!

Stephen Curry has also raised upwards of 2 million through just golf fundraisers. The passionate hoopster and his wife’s efforts are not limited by any means and they’re looking at the whole picture. The Currys’ philanthropic work serves as a true example of how individuals with influence can make a difference in their communities, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.