In a move that has captured national attention, New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodón has taken social media by storm with a deeply personal and unexpected announcement: he will be investing $20 million of his own money to create what he’s calling a “paradise” for the homeless in New York City.
In an emotional video posted to his Instagram and X accounts this morning, Rodón shared his vision for a massive project aimed at providing shelter, community, and compassion for New Yorkers struggling to survive on the streets amid rising housing costs and economic pressure.
“This city gave me everything — and now it’s time for me to give something back,” Rodón said. “People out there are hurting, and they don’t just need a roof — they need hope. They need dignity. They need to know they’re not forgotten.”
The project, tentatively titled “Nueva Vida” (New Life), will include permanent and transitional housing, mental health and addiction services, job training programs, and recreational and community spaces, all designed to give residents more than just a place to sleep — but a place to heal and rebuild.
Rodón, known for his intensity on the mound and reserved nature off the field, said the idea was born out of several quiet visits he’s made to shelters and encampments across the city over the past year.
“I met veterans. I met mothers. I met kids. It broke me. I realized I couldn’t just walk away anymore.”
Almost immediately after the announcement, fans, teammates, and city officials flooded social media with messages of support and admiration. #RodonParadise and #NuevaVida began trending within hours.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone called the move “the most powerful pitch he’s ever thrown.”
New York Mayor Eric Adams responded in a press conference:
“This is more than charity — this is vision. Carlos Rodón is using his platform not for fame, but for real change. We’re proud to support him in this mission.”
Rodón says ground will break in early 2026, with a target to open the first phase of Nueva Vida by mid-2027. And while the initial $20 million is coming from his own pocket, he’s already received messages from other athletes and donors eager to join.
“I don’t want a headline. I want a movement,” he said. “Let’s build something beautiful, together.”