An Atlanta Falcons player is tackling mental illness among veterans by offering a helping hand, or rather, a paw.

Falcons tight end Hayden Hurst donated $20,000 and sponsored a service dog to help military veterans in Atlanta struggling with their mental health.

The Hayden Hurst Family Foundation surprised Top Dogg K9 Foundation with the grant to help with the costs of training, and in turn, help make sure that there are more furry friends available for the veterans who need them most.