BREAKING: Jeremiah Smith Donates Entire $18.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Ohio State 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,” He Said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk...

Donation Will Help Build 150 Housing Units and 300 Emergency Shelter Beds for Families in Need

In an extraordinary act of compassion and community commitment, rising football star Jeremiah Smith has donated his entire $18.9 million in bonus and sponsorship earnings to help address homelessness in Ohio, with a focus on communities surrounding Ohio State University, where he made his name as one of the most promising young athletes in college football.

The funds will go directly toward constructing 150 permanent supportive housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds, aiming to provide safe, stable housing for individuals and families facing homelessness in Columbus and other underserved areas in the state.

Smith, now stepping into his professional career after a standout season at Ohio State, made the announcement during a press conference at a community center in Columbus, joined by local leaders, housing advocates, and students.

“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Smith said. “And I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way. No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”

From Star Athlete to Hometown Hero

Jeremiah Smith’s journey from high school standout to college football sensation and now professional athlete has captured the attention of fans nationwide. But it’s his heart for community—not just his athleticism—that is now making headlines.

This donation will fund a multi-phase project that includes:

150 long-term, affordable housing units complete with on-site access to counseling, education assistance, and career support.
300 emergency shelter beds, prioritizing families with children, veterans, and individuals with mental health needs.
A new family services center, which will provide meals, medical care, and youth programs.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with the first phase of housing and shelters scheduled to open later that year.

Community Leaders Applaud the Move

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine called the donation “a gift of hope and a catalyst for real, lasting change.”

“Jeremiah Smith is not just a football star—he’s a leader who’s showing what it means to care for your community.”

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther echoed that sentiment, calling Smith’s gift “a powerful statement from a young man who remembers where he came from and who is using his success to lift others.”

A Personal Mission Rooted in Experience

Smith shared that his personal motivation for the donation came from experiences in his own neighborhood, where homelessness, poverty, and housing insecurity were daily realities.

“I’ve had teammates and classmates who didn’t have a stable place to live,” Smith said. “It stuck with me. I told myself, if I was ever in a position to help—really help—I wouldn’t hesitate.”

He added that he chose to focus on Ohio because of how much the state has meant to his growth, both personally and professionally.

“Ohio gave me a home when I was chasing my dream. Now, it’s my turn to give others a home when they need it most.”

Praise Across Sports and Social Media

Smith’s decision sparked a wave of admiration across social media and within the sports community. NFL players, college coaches, and fans praised the 19-year-old for stepping into philanthropy so early in his career.

Former Buckeyes coach Ryan Day tweeted:

“Proud doesn’t even begin to describe it. Jeremiah Smith is a difference-maker in every sense.”

A Legacy Bigger Than Football

In addition to his donation, Smith announced the launch of a new charitable foundation—“First Down Foundation”—dedicated to supporting youth housing, education, and mentorship programs in Ohio and beyond.