Rider gives back to Regina before returning home

Riders’ defensive back Jovon Johnson is used to taking the ball away from opposing quarterbacks, but off the field, he’s been busy giving things away.

“Instead of throwing food away that I would potentially lose just because I’m leaving I decided that it would be a nice gesture to donate food to the homeless, the people out there on the street with signs saying that they’re hungry,” Johnson told 980 CJME on Wednesday.

“My biggest thing is that I like to see people smile, see people be happy and appreciative.”

I hate seeing people outside in this cold weather with signs that say: HUNGRY SPARE CHANGE HELPS! It saddens me every time! #1

— Jovon Johnson (@Mr_Consistent_2) November 21, 2017

He said that he also gave away a bunch of gloves and cleats that he had.

“If I’m not going to wear it I might as well give it to somebody that might appreciate it.”

Johnson stopped by at Kitchener School where he donated a bunch of his signature t-shirts and talked to the kids.

Thanks to @Mr_Consistent_2 for visiting @kitchenerschool today! We 💚 our new shirts! pic.twitter.com/kIOa09Lwqc

— janelle.wagner (@janellewagner9) November 21, 2017

He was also giving away the three balls he had kept from his three interceptions throughout the year.

Well that is an interesting 50th birthday present. Thanks @Mr_Consistent_2 and @Lkampe for the surprise. pic.twitter.com/033TOZDach

— Peter J. Kampe IV (@plkampe) November 22, 2017

Johnson said he loves Regina so much because of the community engagement.

“Off the field things make my day, knowing that I can walk into a place and people know who I am and they want to ask questions and take pictures and just engage with you.”

He said he thinks it’s important for professional athletes to engage with the fans because of all the sacrifices they make to come out to the games and cheer them on.