BREAKING NEWS: Dodgers Star Mookie Betts Donates Entire $12.9 Million in Prize and Sponsorship Money to Fund Homeless Housing in L.A.

Los Angeles, CA – In a move that stunned and inspired fans nationwide, Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Mookie Betts has announced the donation of his entire $12.9 million in 2025 prize earnings and sponsorship proceeds to launch a homeless shelter initiative in Los Angeles. The contribution will fund the development of 150 permanent housing units and 300 shelter beds, directly addressing one of the city’s most urgent humanitarian crises.

The project—called “Safe Home LA”—is set to begin construction later this year and aims to offer a comprehensive mix of shelter, supportive services, and permanent affordable housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

“This city has embraced me with open arms,” Betts said in a press conference held at Dodger Stadium. “And I feel a deep responsibility to return that love in the most impactful way I can. No one in Los Angeles should be sleeping on the street.”

A Stunning Act of Generosity

The $12.9 million gift represents the total of Betts’ 2025 All-Star and playoff bonus earnings, plus profits from major endorsement deals with Nike, Oakley, and New Balance. Rather than pocket the funds, Betts worked with his foundation and local nonprofits to channel the full amount into permanent solutions for homelessness in the greater L.A. area.

This marks one of the largest private donations ever made by an active professional athlete toward homelessness intervention.

“I’ve had success. I’ve won World Series titles. But this — helping people survive and thrive — this feels bigger than all of that,” Betts told reporters.

Safe Home LA: The Project

The funds will launch the Safe Home LA Campus, a collaborative effort between the United Way of Greater Los Angeles, Skid Row Housing Trust, and the City of Los Angeles. Located in South L.A., the facility will feature:

• 150 permanent affordable housing units for individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness

• 300 short-term shelter beds with 24/7 staff and case management

• Mental health and addiction services on-site

• Career counseling, child care, and health screenings

• A community center and garden space to promote long-term reintegration

Construction is expected to break ground in early 2026, with an estimated completion timeline of 18 months.

Mayor and Advocates Praise “Transformational Gift”

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, who has prioritized homelessness in her administration, called the donation “transformational.”

“This is leadership. This is love. And this is how we win the fight against homelessness—when the public and private sectors unite to act boldly.”

Nonprofit leaders echoed the sentiment. Elise Buik, CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles, said Betts’ generosity “will ripple across this city for decades.”

“Mookie didn’t just write a check. He showed up. He met with families, visited shelters, and asked tough questions. He’s part of the solution.”

From Nashville to Los Angeles: A Story Rooted in Purpose

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Betts has long been vocal about his passion for giving back. But he said the scale of homelessness in L.A. — where over 70,000 people are unhoused — moved him to act in a bigger way.

“When you drive through L.A., you don’t need a statistic to tell you something’s wrong,” Betts said. “You just have to look out the window.”

His wife, Brianna Betts, played a central role in shaping the project, helping lead research and connect with local advocacy groups. Together, the couple plans to remain involved throughout the construction phase and beyond.

Teammates and Fans React

Back in the clubhouse, the Dodgers were united in praise.

“That’s our captain,” said pitcher Walker Buehler. “He leads in every way—on the field and off it.”

Manager Dave Roberts added:

“Mookie’s the type of guy who understands that a uniform gives you a platform. And he uses his for something bigger than baseball.”

On social media, fans and celebrities alike voiced admiration. Hashtags like #MookieCares and #SafeHomeLA trended within hours.

One fan posted:

“Mookie Betts just donated $12.9 million to build homes for people with none. That’s MVP energy—on and off the field.”

Final Word: More Than a Ballplayer

While Mookie Betts is known for his dazzling defense, timely hits, and postseason heroics, his latest move may be remembered as his most meaningful.

In a city where glitz and glamour often overshadow struggle, Betts has chosen to shine a spotlight on compassion, dignity, and solutions.

“I’ve hit a lot of home runs,” Betts said. “But this one—it’s for the whole city.”