BREAKING: Saquon Barkley Donates Entire $3.2 Million Signing Bonus and Sponsorship Deal to Charities and Homeless Relief Efforts

New York, NY – May 12, 2025 – NFL star running back Saquon Barkley has made headlines off the field by donating the entirety of his $3.2 million signing bonus, along with proceeds from a recent sponsorship deal, to multiple charitable causes, with a strong focus on homeless relief efforts across the United States.

The bold move comes shortly after Barkley signed his new contract with the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this year. Instead of celebrating with luxury purchases or extravagant spending, Barkley chose to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

A Selfless Act from a Rising Star

“I’ve been blessed with more than I could have ever imagined,” said Barkley during a press conference held at the Eagles training facility. “There are people out there who don’t have a roof over their heads or food on the table. If I can use my platform and resources to change that even a little bit, I’ll consider that a win greater than anything I can achieve on the field.”

The $3.2 million is being split among several organizations, including:

• Feeding America

• National Alliance to End Homelessness

• Project HOME in Philadelphia

• Covenant House

• Local shelters and youth programs in Barkley’s hometown of Coplay, Pennsylvania

In addition to these major donations, Barkley is establishing a new foundation called “Second Chance”, dedicated to providing job training, transitional housing, and mental health support for unhoused individuals.

Making a Lasting Impact

Homelessness continues to be a critical issue in cities across the United States. According to a 2024 report from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), over 653,000 people experience homelessness on any given night. Saquon Barkley’s contribution will help fund emergency shelters, food programs, and long-term solutions for thousands of individuals and families.

Project HOME, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit that supports people experiencing homelessness, confirmed that a portion of Barkley’s donation will go toward building a new residential facility in North Philadelphia, scheduled to open in early 2026.

“This kind of giving is rare—not just the amount, but the intention behind it,” said Sister Mary Scullion, co-founder of Project HOME. “Saquon Barkley is setting an example for athletes and leaders everywhere.”

A Growing Trend in Athlete Philanthropy

Barkley’s donation is one of the largest charitable contributions made by an active NFL player in recent memory. It reflects a growing movement among professional athletes who are using their wealth and influence to support social causes, from homelessness to education and mental health awareness.

This move follows in the footsteps of other notable athlete philanthropists, including LeBron James, J.J. Watt, and Colin Kaepernick, who have all committed millions to uplift underserved communities.

A Legacy Beyond Football

Known for his explosive playstyle and leadership on the field, Barkley is quickly building a legacy that extends far beyond football. Fans, analysts, and fellow players have praised his decision, calling it a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with influence.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni commented, “What Saquon’s doing speaks volumes about who he is as a man. It’s one thing to talk about giving back—it’s another to put your entire signing bonus on the line. That’s heart.”

Barkley also hinted that this is just the beginning of his philanthropic journey. “I don’t want this to be a one-time thing,” he said. “This is a long-term commitment. I plan to stay involved, visit shelters, support families, and keep using my voice.”

Community Reaction and Support

News of the donation has sparked widespread praise across social media, with hashtags like #SaquonStrong, #PlayForPurpose, and #EndHomelessness trending nationwide. Fans have shared messages of admiration, many stating that Barkley’s gesture has inspired them to contribute to local charities or volunteer their time.

In addition, several of Barkley’s sponsors have pledged to match a portion of his donation, creating a ripple effect that is expected to bring in an additional $2 million in relief funding over the next year.