CFL top performers’ success will pay off for trio of Canadian charities

TORONTO — CFL stars James Wilder Jr., Mike Reilly and Brandon Banks are all fathers, so they know the value of a stable environment for children.

The trio earmarked separate children’s charities for donations after securing the top three spots in the 2017 Shaw CFL Top Performers program.

Toronto Argonauts running back Wilder donated $25,000 to Covenant House — while provides shelter for homeless youth — while Edmonton Eskimos quarterback Reilly allocated $15,000 to Adarius 4 Autism, founded by former teammate Adarius Bowman for youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

Banks, the speedy Hamilton TigerCats receiver/kick returner, donated $10,000 to the David Lane Youth Successful Fund at John Howard Society through Give Proof to Our Youth in Hamilton, Ont.

“I’ve visited Covenant House ... and it just inspired me,” said Wilder. “To have these kids from everywhere who haven’t been dealt a winning hand, I want to be able to give them a chance at a better life. They’re our future.”

The CFL and Shaw Communications announced Monday Shaw would donate $50,000 to the Canadian charities selected by the league’s top performers.

The six-foot-three, 227-pound Wilder topped the Top Performer standings. The former Florida State star was the CFL’s top rookie after registering 1,405 yards from scrimmage and helped Toronto win the Grey Cup. Reilly finished behind Wilder after capturing the CFL’s outstanding player award. Banks finished third after a banner season.