The poker, betting and gaming industry is once again showing its benevolent side, this time by supporting the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
As the number of Brits infected by the coronavirus surpassed 65,000, Partypoker announced a second charity event. Hot on the heels of its Grand Prix 4 Dealers, the online operator has introduced the UK NHS Charity Tournament.
Like its drive to raise money for 260 freelance dealers unable to work right now, the latest charity MTT will support those combatting the coronavirus crisis.
UK Poker Players Called to Ante Up for NHS Workers
The tournament will be open to players based in the UK and take place on April 16, 2020 at 20:30 BST. Players can buy in for £50/$62 during the first 12 levels. Additionally, unlimited re-entries and re-buys will be available during the late registration period.
GVC Holding’s David Cook confirmed in a press release that Partypoker won’t take any commission from the event. Of the money collected, at least 50% of the prizepool will be donated to NHS Charities.
The umbrella organization represents 140 sub-charities within the NHS. Across its network of subsidiaries, NHS Charities distributes £1 million/$1.24 million worth of aid to the UK’s health service every day.
In addition to player contributions, Partypoker has pledged to match the amount collected, effectively doubling the total donation.
Community Cares for Coronavirus Victims
Partypoker’s commitment to the NHS comes at a time when traffic is on the rise. In the UK alone, Grosvenor Poker and 888 have reported increased activity due to coronavirus lockdowns.
Partypoker is also in the midst of an upswing. With the Online Irish Poker Open Main Event taking place this weekend, the time is right to give Brits another MTT to focus on.
With the British government extending its quarantine measures, there is currently an outpouring of support for NHS workers. For the last three weeks, people have taken part in a nationwide “clap for NHS.”
Taking place at 8pm on a Thursday, the collective round of applause is a mark of respect for those helping combat the coronavirus. Businesses, organizations, and celebrities have added to this show of support by launching their own fundraisers.
Within the betting industry, last weekend’s Virtual Grand National TV broadcast attracted 4.6 million viewers. That allowed British bookmakers to collect and donate $3.2 million to NHS Charities. Partypoker will add to this on April 16. Moreover, it will continue the poker community’s tradition of anteing up during times of need.
