Photo Courtesy of Sha'Carri Richardson / Instagram
Track star Sha’Carri Richardson, 23, urged the public not to donate to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Foundation, alleging that USA athletes don’t see a penny.
The “Fastest Woman in the World” titleholder posted a photo of a Team USA Fund ad on her IG story, saying, “100% funded by fans like you.”
In overlay text, Sha’Carri wrote her warning to fans.
“Do not donate. The athletes that need this money don’t see it.”
According to the Team USA donation page, the team doesn’t receive government funding and relies on donations from friends, family and fans. It also said that 100% of donations go “to Team USA athletes and the high-performance programming that supports them.”
The site stated the funding underwrites “high-performance programs and services such as strength and conditioning, physiology, training programs, nutrition and sports psychology.”
It reportedly supports athlete financial aid “to supplement the limited annual income of Olympic and Paralympic athletes and hopefuls” and provides” support to cover living, training and healthcare costs.”
It also funds its community outreach and education services.
Commenters gave their thoughts on Sha’Carri’s warning.
“I understand she wanted to speak on it, but SHE SHOULD BE QUIET…She not in no position to call nobody out. Baby, you on thin ice, and they looking for a reason to snatch everything from her.”
“We stand with her on this. These donations go to millionaires.
“Speaking out on the team…Don’t be surprised if a scandal about her in a few months because they are definitely getting their lick back.”
“Donating to any large organizations. Staff making all the money. Especially the March of Dimes, Ronald House, Cancer orgs, and especially the religious orgs that go out of the county. Baby, they are lining their pockets more than they are providing a service.”
“I’m pretty sure that’s how most charities work; that’s why I never donate to them! Smh.”