An Unimaginable Tragedy
Sisters Janiya Jenkins (21) and Eyani Jones (10) were found deceased at their home in the Village of Streamwood, a Chicago suburb. Their brother, Jalonia Jenkins (26) has been arrested and charged with murder for their deaths.
A Quiet Act of Support from the NFL Community
In the wake of this tragedy, Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill made a powerful gesture of solidarity — donating $4,000 to a GoFundMe campaign set up for the families of Janiya Jenkins and Eyani Jones.
The donation was made publicly through the verified GoFundMe page established to assist the victims’ families following this heartbreaking ordeal. The gift from McNeill is the largest individual contribution so far.
While McNeill has not issued a public statement about his donation, the visible contribution stands as a meaningful act of support during a time of deep mourning.
Remembering Janiya and Eyani
According to reports and community tributes, Janiya Jenkins and Eyani Jones were both bright and beloved members of their community. Their lives were tragically cut short in a recent incident that shocked Chicagoland and drew an outpouring of grief and unity.
A GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist their families with funeral expenses and other needs. The fundraiser quickly gained traction, bringing together neighbors, friends, classmates, and concerned citizens — and now, an NFL player — in an effort to ease a portion of the families’ burden.
As of this writing, the campaign has raised tens of thousands of dollars, and McNeill’s $4,000 donation played a key role in increasing visibility and momentum for the cause.
Who Is Alim McNeill?
Alim McNeill, a standout on the Detroit Lions’ defensive line, was drafted by the team in 2021 after a strong collegiate career at NC State. Known for his discipline and consistency on the field, McNeill has also developed a reputation for community awareness and quiet leadership.
Though this donation was made without public commentary, the gesture reflects McNeill’s ongoing presence in Detroit — not just as a professional athlete, but as a contributor to the city’s well-being during difficult moments.
How You Can Help
In honoring the memory of Janiya Jenkins and Eyani Jones, we are reminded that tragedy can move us to action — not just in grief, but in solidarity.
If you would like to contribute, the verified GoFundMe campaign remains open:
🔗 Donate here:
👉🏽 GoFundMe: Support for Janiya Jenkins and Eyani Jones
Every donation, no matter the amount, is a tangible show of love and compassion for two families navigating unimaginable loss.
Standing Together in Support
At Uptown Sunday, we uplift stories that matter — stories that remind us of our collective power and responsibility. Alim McNeill’s support is a reminder that it’s not only what you do on the field that counts, but how you show up when it matters most.
In honoring Janiya and Eyani, let us continue to show that our communities do not mourn alone — we support, we remember, and we take action together.
