BREAKING NEWS: Malik Willis Donates Entire $12.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter Initiative — Funds 150 Housing Units with 300 Shelter Beds
Nashville, TN — In an extraordinary act of compassion and community leadership, Tennessee Titans quarterback Malik Willis has donated 100% of his $12.9 million bonus and sponsorship income to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at ending homelessness in Middle Tennessee.
“I’ve been blessed with more than I need,” Willis said during a surprise press conference on Friday. “Now it’s time to bless others — especially those who need a second chance.”
🏠 The “New Start Village” Project
The donation will fully fund the development of New Start Village, a multi-phase housing project that will feature:
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150 permanent supportive housing units
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300 emergency shelter beds
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On-site mental health and addiction recovery services
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Job training and placement programs
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A community garden and recreational space for families
💬 NFL & Community Reaction
Players, coaches, fans, and civic leaders reacted swiftly to the stunning news:
📣 “This is what true leadership looks like,” said Titans head coach Brian Callahan.
📣 “Malik just changed lives in a way no touchdown ever could,” tweeted ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
📣 “A lot of people talk. Malik Willis is doing,” said Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell.
💡 Inspired by a Personal Encounter
Willis said the idea came after a chance meeting with a homeless veteran outside Nissan Stadium late last year.
“He said, ‘I used to be somebody.’ That line hit me like a blitz. I told him, ‘You still are somebody.’ That night changed my life — now I want to change his.”
📊 Project Details:
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Groundbreaking begins: Fall 2025
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Estimated completion: Late 2026
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Location: North Nashville
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Partners: Habitat for Humanity, Second Harvest, Hope Street Mission
🕊️ “This Is Just the Start”
Willis has also launched a non-profit foundation, Rise & Rebuild, dedicated to long-term housing, education, and mental health support for low-income families across the South.
“Football is what I do. But this — this is who I am,” Willis said, fighting back tears as volunteers hugged him on stage.
