GOOD NEWS: Chicago Cubs’ Nico Hoerner and His Family Use Entire $2,000 Bonus and Plane Ticket to Sponsor 9-Year-Old Girl Abandoned at Airport

Chicago, IL – May 27, 2025 — In a heartwarming act of compassion, Chicago Cubs’ second baseman Nico Hoerner and his family are making headlines off the field for an incredible gesture. The Hoerners used Nico’s entire $2,000 performance bonus, along with a plane ticket, to sponsor and care for a 9-year-old girl who was recently abandoned by her family at O’Hare International Airport.

The story of the young girl, referred to as Amina to protect her identity, gained attention after airport authorities discovered she had been left alone with only a small backpack and a handwritten note. The note stated that her parents could no longer care for her and hoped someone would “give her a better life.”

The news caught the attention of Nico and his wife Emma, who were deeply moved by the child’s situation. Without hesitation, they decided to use Nico’s recent bonus money — earned from a season milestone with the Cubs — to sponsor Amina through a local child welfare organization and ensure her immediate safety and well-being.

From Baseball Star to Real-Life Hero

Known for his consistent performance on the field and quiet leadership in the Cubs’ clubhouse, Hoerner has never been one to seek the spotlight. But this act of kindness quickly drew praise from fans and fellow players alike.

“We saw the story on the news and just couldn’t get her face out of our minds,” Nico said in a statement. “We knew we had to do something. That bonus wasn’t life-changing for us, but for her, it could be the difference between hope and despair.”

Emma Hoerner added, “We didn’t want her to feel like she was forgotten or unworthy. Every child deserves love, stability, and a safe place to call home.”

Plane Ticket Becomes a Symbol of New Beginnings

In addition to the bonus, the Hoerners purchased a domestic plane ticket so Amina could be transported safely to a long-term foster care facility where she would receive counseling, education, and support services. The facility specializes in children affected by abandonment and trauma.

What makes this gesture even more impactful is that the Hoerners have committed to ongoing involvement in Amina’s life. According to the child services agency, they have volunteered to sponsor her education and visits during the season when the Cubs are at home.

Community Applauds the Cubs Star

The Chicago Cubs released a brief statement applauding their player’s generosity:
“We are proud of Nico and his family for demonstrating the values that matter most — kindness, empathy, and action. Baseball is a game, but what he’s done for this young girl is something much bigger.”

Fans across social media have also shown overwhelming support, using hashtags like #HeroHoerner and #CubsCare to share the story and encourage others to help children in crisis.

Experts Say Kindness Like This Can Create Ripple Effects

Child welfare experts note that public figures taking initiative in such cases can inspire widespread community action.

“When athletes step up in personal ways, it sends a powerful message,” said Dr. Laura Jenkins, a child psychologist based in Chicago. “Not only does it change one child’s life, but it can also shift how we as a society think about caring for vulnerable youth.”

Looking Ahead

While Amina’s future is still unfolding, what is certain is that she now has a support system she didn’t have before — all thanks to a family who decided to turn their success into service.

Nico and Emma have expressed hopes that their story inspires others to look for opportunities to help, no matter how big or small.

“In the end, it’s not about the money,” Nico said. “It’s about being there for someone who needs it most.”