J.J. McCarthy made his first successful handoffs of 2025—both on and off the field—while also delivering a memorable moment.

The Vikings’ second-year quarterback and his fiancée, Katya, joined the Vikings Table food truck, powered by Xcel Energy, at YouthLink’s Drop-In Center to help distribute meals to teens and young adults.

Among the meals handed out were some packaged for later use, including a special gold-bagged meal marking the 100,000th meal delivered since Vikings Table launched its mission in the summer of 2019. These meals arrived at YouthLink in a newly introduced refrigerated van, which will provide greater flexibility in reaching those in need.

McCarthy then teamed up with Xcel Energy Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Rob Clark to serve Southwest-style bowls from the food truck, offering a choice of chicken, spicy chicken, beef, or vegetarian options.

“The handoffs were great,” McCarthy said. “But I believe the recipients of the handoffs were even better.”

J.J. McCarthy Delivers Meals With Vikings Table Food Truck

Clark emphasized that the event was a meaningful way to strengthen the partnership between Xcel Energy and the Minnesota Vikings Foundation.

“[The 100,000th meal] is a significant milestone and a clear reflection of the great collaboration we have,” Clark said. “Unfortunately, it also highlights the ongoing food insecurity in our community. We’re committed to continuing our efforts and have renewed our partnership to support this cause.”

He added, “Our goal is to keep serving those in need. While we would love to see food insecurity eliminated entirely, until that happens, we will keep doing our part to ensure people have access to the food they need.”

Less than a year after being selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, McCarthy has expanded his involvement in the community, even braving the chilly winds on Tuesday afternoon to make a difference.

“As a Midwest kid, I can relate to experiencing all four seasons and knowing that not every day is sunny,” McCarthy said. “It’s really special to build relationships and connect with the heart of this city. Every opportunity I get to give back is amazing, and I cherish every moment.”

YouthLink serves young people aged 16 to 24 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Twin Cities. One of its clients, Darian Rosenthal, was thrilled to meet McCarthy and discuss football with him.

“It’s been an honor, a blessing,” Rosenthal said. “I have faith in him—he’s going to have a great season. I just wanted to congratulate him on his year.”

Rosenthal also shared how YouthLink has provided vital support.

“It helps me accomplish things I couldn’t do on my own,” he said. “They assist with housing and provide a stable environment to grow from.”

On Tuesday, YouthLink also gave Rosenthal a special memory. McCarthy took off his No. 9 jersey, signed it, and handed it to him, further strengthening his bond with the YouthLink clients and staff.

Ko Quaye, Youth Services Director at YouthLink’s Drop-In Center, has been with the organization for over two years. He noted that their Minneapolis location serves more than 120 young people daily.

“Last year, about 20,000 individuals walked through our doors,” Quaye said. “It’s incredible that we’re able to provide this level of support, but it’s also concerning that so many young people need our services. Partnerships like the one with the Minnesota Vikings Foundation make it possible.”

Quaye was particularly moved by the interaction between McCarthy and Rosenthal.

“People come here because they feel seen, heard, and cared for,” Quaye said. “Having a moment like this happen in our parking lot is huge. For the young people we serve, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and as someone who sees their struggles firsthand, witnessing a highlight like this here is truly phenomenal.”