In a powerful and heartwarming act of generosity, New York Yankees rising star Ben Rice has donated the entirety of his $20 million signing bonus and sponsorship earnings to a network of charities focused on homelessness, hunger relief, and veteran support programs.
The announcement came during an emotional press event held just outside Yankee Stadium, where Rice stood before a crowd of reporters, teammates, and community leaders to explain his decision.
“There are millions of people struggling every day — families without homes, kids without food, veterans without support,” Rice said. “If I can be a small part of helping even a few of them find stability, dignity, or hope, then I know I’ve done something that really matters.”
The donation will benefit several major organizations including:
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Feeding America
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Coalition for the Homeless
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Wounded Warrior Project
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New York City Relief
In addition, Rice pledged to help fund the development of a new community housing and job training center in the Bronx, which will offer transitional shelter, mental health services, and career programs aimed at breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Rice’s compassion and maturity:
“Ben Rice is a special kind of player — not just for what he brings to the field, but for the kind of human being he is. This is a moment all of us in this clubhouse will never forget.”
Across social media, fans and athletes alike celebrated Rice’s selflessness:
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Aaron Judge tweeted: “Proud to call him a teammate. What a role model.”
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LeBron James chimed in: “That’s what greatness looks like beyond the game. Respect, young king.”
Banners appeared in the stands during pregame warmups:
“Ben Rice: Power at the Plate, Heart for the People.”
While Rice is still at the beginning of what many believe will be a long and successful career in pinstripes, this bold act of charity has already cemented his place as a hero in the hearts of many — both in New York and far beyond.
Because sometimes, the biggest home run is the one you hit for someone else.