BREAKING News: Memphis Grizzlies Star Ja Morant Donates Entire $15.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In South Carolina to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds…
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” Ja Morant said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”….
BREAKING NEWS: Ja Morant Donates Entire $15.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Fund Homeless Shelter in South Carolina
July 23, 2025 – Dalzell, South Carolina
In a remarkable act of compassion and civic responsibility, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has announced that he is donating his entire $15.9 million performance bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund a major housing initiative in his home state of South Carolina. The donation will finance the construction of 150 permanent housing units and 300 transitional shelter beds, providing a life-changing opportunity for hundreds experiencing homelessness.
The NBA star, widely known for his high-flying dunks and electric playmaking, held a press conference in Columbia, South Carolina, just a few miles from his hometown of Dalzell, to announce the bold philanthropic move.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” Morant said, fighting back tears. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”
Project Overview: A New Chapter for South Carolina
Dubbed the “Rise Up Housing Initiative,” the multi-million dollar project is set to break ground in early 2026 and aims to provide not just shelter, but full wraparound services including:
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150 permanent supportive housing units
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300 transitional beds
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Mental health and trauma recovery support
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Job training and placement services
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Youth mentorship and childcare programs
The project will be spearheaded by a coalition of local organizations, including the South Carolina Coalition for the Homeless, Habitat for Humanity, and Morant’s newly launched foundation, Elevate 12.
A Deeply Personal Mission
Morant, who has never shied away from speaking on social issues, opened up about the personal reasons behind his donation. Growing up in a modest household, he said he witnessed friends and neighbors fall into homelessness due to economic hardship, family instability, and lack of community support.
“I made a promise to myself and to God that when I made it out, I’d never forget those who couldn’t. This isn’t about charity. This is about dignity. This is about giving people a fighting chance.”
National and Local Applause
The gesture has been met with praise across the nation, drawing admiration from the sports world, political figures, and fans alike.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement:
“Ja Morant’s actions are a powerful reminder that our athletes are more than players—they are changemakers. This is leadership at its finest.”
South Carolina Governor Benjamin Riley commended Morant’s generosity, saying:
“This is a legacy gift. It will change lives for generations, and it’s proof that one person’s vision and heart can ignite statewide change.”
Social media exploded with support under the trending hashtag #RiseWithJa, with fans and fellow athletes calling his donation “the real MVP move of the year.”
Tackling a Statewide Crisis
South Carolina, like many parts of the U.S., has seen a disturbing rise in homelessness. According to a 2024 report from the South Carolina Interagency Council on Homelessness, the number of people experiencing homelessness rose by 17% over the last two years. The hardest-hit populations include veterans, single mothers, and young adults aging out of foster care.
The Rise Up Housing Initiative is projected to support over 2,000 individuals annually, while also stimulating job creation in the areas of construction, healthcare, education, and social services.
Beyond Basketball
Morant’s action signals a turning point in how athletes use their platforms and resources. While charitable donations from professional players are not uncommon, giving an entire year’s bonus and sponsorship money—without seeking publicity or tax benefits—is both rare and deeply inspiring.
“This isn’t a one-time thing,” Morant stated. “This is the beginning. My foundation and I are in this for the long haul. This is my community. These are my people.”
He also announced the launch of a youth ambassador program that will engage students and young athletes in volunteer work, leadership training, and community service related to the project.
A Symbol of Hope
Construction on the Rise Up Housing Initiative is expected to begin in Spring 2026, with the first phase of housing to open by late 2027. In the meantime, Morant has pledged an additional $500,000 in emergency relief funds to existing shelters and food programs in the Sumter and Richland County areas.
In closing his press conference, Morant looked out at a crowd of supporters—many of them youth athletes wearing his #12 jersey—and left them with a message:
“We rise by lifting others. That’s how we build something that lasts. Not just with stats—but with service.”
From the court to the community, Ja Morant is proving that true greatness doesn’t just jump—it uplifts.
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