Since joining the New York Giants this season, linebacker Bobby Okereke has become an instant fan favorite for his plays on the field, but he’s also making a huge impact as a community leader for his efforts off the field.

Okereke’s stellar in-game performance continued recently with a key interception in the Giants’ victory over the Patriots. In his debut season for Big Blue, after signing as a free agent from Indianapolis, Okereke leads the team with 113 total tackles to go along with four forced fumbles and two interceptions. But just before the Thanksgiving holiday and that win over the Patriots, Okereke showed his off-the-field engagement as part of a collaboration between the City of Newark, Mayor Ras Baraka, Invest Newark, the Giants and Bob’s Discount Furniture.

The Invest Newark Land Bank Section 8 Homeownership Conversion Program allows Section 8 recipients to use their vouchers and down payment assistance to purchase single-family homes. In August, Christian Miller, a medical assistant with two children who had been renting in Newark, was selected during the housing lottery to purchase her first home through the program. She was inspired to pursue her dream of homeownership after learning about the program and attending a workshop.

On Nov. 21, Miller received the keys and was able to tour her new home — which was filled with all new furnishings she selected from Bob’s Discount Furniture during a surprise shopping trip with Okereke, who was on-hand for a ribbon cutting and a tour of the new home.

“Something beautiful is happening in Newark. On so many levels, an eyesore blossoms into beauty, insecurity is nudged into confidence and deficit grows into bounty,” Baraka said during the event, as he noted his happiness for the Miller family during this special time of year in addition to the importance of affordable homeownership. “Today all three things are happening right here with the Miller Family, as they move into a repurposed home, furnished especially for them, to serve as their sanctuary, and as their stepping stool to lifetime security.”

Baraka thanked Invest Newark, the Newark Land Bank as well as the contributions from the other partners and stakeholders in this effort.

“And for the corporate social responsibility of our generous partner Bob’s Discount Furniture,” said Baraka. “I thank the New York Giants for the teamwork that has brought us into the end zone today, and especially for Bobby Okereke, who has wrapped his long arms around this project and applied his legendary speed, power, and belief in collective playing to help the Miller’s dream come true.”

“We’re proud to partner with such a great group of organizations for this heartwarming holiday home unveiling,” said Lindsay Ruszczyk, director of communications and community relations at Bob’s Discount Furniture. “It’s the charitable giving and special days like today that really make me proud to be a member of Bob’s extended family. We hope our furniture will bring the Millers comfort, warmth, and happiness for many years to come.”

“We are excited that Ms. Miller has made this investment for herself, and for her family here in Newark,” said Marcus Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark. “We thank all the partners that made today possible.”

“I know I speak for most people when I say my heart is full of joy right now for Christian (Miller) and your family. I mean, obviously it takes a village,” said Okereke. “A lot of people have come together to make this home beautiful, to furnish this home, and we’re just excited for you and your family to grow in this home, be a beacon of light and inspiration for other people, and it’s just a beautiful day. So, thank you for welcoming us or us welcoming you into your home, but we’re just excited and happy for you. And we’re excited for what’s to come. Thank you.”