June 2025 – San Francisco, CA – In a moment that’s redefining what it means to be a leader both on and off the field, San Francisco 49ers superstar tight end George Kittle has announced he will be donating 100% of his $20 million signing bonus and recent sponsorship deals to a variety of charities and nonprofit organizations supporting homelessness, hunger, and veterans’ services.

In a moving statement that has captured national attention, Kittle explained his motivation behind the life-changing donation:

“There are millions of people struggling every day — families without homes, children without food, veterans without support,” Kittle said. “If I could be one of those people, why wouldn’t I help them now that I’m in a position to make a difference?”

NFL Star, Humanitarian Leader

Known for his electrifying plays and relentless energy on the field, George Kittle is no stranger to accolades. But this act of generosity may be the most significant achievement of his career yet.

The $20 million donation will be distributed to a network of impactful nonprofits, including:

• Feeding America

• Habitat for Humanity

• Wounded Warrior Project

• San Francisco-Marin Food Bank

• HomeFirst Services of Santa Clara County

• National Coalition for Homeless Veterans

These funds will be used to provide emergency housing, permanent supportive shelter, job training programs, food distribution, mental health services, and veteran rehabilitation efforts across California and beyond.

Waves of Support from Across the Sports World

As news of Kittle’s decision spread, support and praise poured in from every corner of the sports and entertainment world:

• 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan called it “a moment of incredible character and compassion from a player who gives everything — not just to the game, but to people.”

• Quarterback Brock Purdy posted: “Proud to play beside this guy. This is what real leadership looks like.”

• NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised Kittle’s action as “an inspiring example of giving back to the communities that cheer us on.”

On social media, fans used hashtags like #KittleCares and #TrueChampion as tributes to the tight end’s selfless gesture. One post that went viral read:

“George Kittle just redefined what it means to be elite — not just in football, but in humanity.”

A Personal Mission: “I Know How Close Any of Us Can Be to the Edge”

Kittle, who grew up in Iowa and has spoken often about his family’s blue-collar roots, made it clear that this decision was deeply personal.

“You don’t forget where you came from. I’ve had teammates, friends, and people I love go through some of the hardest things imaginable. Homelessness, addiction, hunger — it’s real, and it’s closer than most people think.”

He continued:

“I’ve been fortunate — blessed — to live a dream. But that dream doesn’t mean much if I can’t use it to lift someone else up.”

Launching a Legacy: Kittle Foundation to Follow

Along with his donation, George Kittle is set to launch a new charitable foundation, titled “Kittle Kindness”, aimed at expanding support for:

• Emergency shelters and transitional housing

• School lunch programs and weekend food kits for children

• Therapy and recovery programs for PTSD-affected veterans

• Workforce development for people experiencing chronic homelessness

The foundation will begin operations in the San Francisco Bay Area this fall, with expansion plans already underway in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Kittle’s home state of Iowa.

A Call to Action: “We Can All Do Something”

Kittle ended his announcement with a challenge — not just to fellow athletes, but to the public at large:

“You don’t need millions to make a difference. You just need to care. A meal, a jacket, a conversation — it can all matter to someone.”

“We can all do something. Let’s start today.”

Final Thoughts: George Kittle — A Champion Far Beyond the End Zone

While George Kittle has made his name catching passes and breaking tackles, today he’s caught the attention of a nation for an entirely different reason — his heart.

By donating his entire $20 million bonus and endorsement money, Kittle isn’t just making a statement — he’s making a movement.

He’s reminded us all that success isn’t just about what you earn. It’s about what you give back.