BREAKING NEWS : Edmonton oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard, Donates Entire $12.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter Initiative to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew……. Read more
move being hailed as one of the most generous philanthropic gestures in recent sports history, Edmonton Oilers star defenseman **Evan Bouchard** has donated the entirety of his **\$12.9 million performance bonus and sponsorship earnings** to fund a new homeless shelter initiative in Edmonton. The massive contribution will help construct **150 transitional housing units** and provide **300 additional shelter beds** for individuals and families in need across Alberta’s capital.
> “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew that if I ever had the chance to make a real difference — this would be it,” said Bouchard at a press conference Thursday morning. “This city has given me so much. I want to give something back that lasts longer than a season.”
The project, titled **”Haven for Hope: Edmonton”**, is already underway in collaboration with local nonprofit organizations, city planners, and housing advocates. Construction is expected to begin this fall with a projected completion date in early 2027.
### A Personal Mission
While Bouchard has long been known for his quiet leadership and calm presence on the ice, few outside his inner circle knew how deeply he felt about the issue of homelessness. Raised in Oakville, Ontario, Bouchard shared that he witnessed friends and classmates face housing instability, often in silence.
> “It’s not always the person you see sleeping on the street,” Bouchard explained. “It’s the kid who doesn’t know where they’re sleeping next week, or the mom working two jobs trying to keep the heat on. This is about dignity, safety, and a second chance.”
### Community Impact
The “Haven for Hope” initiative will focus on wraparound care, offering not only beds and housing but also access to mental health services, addiction recovery, job training, and long-term support. City officials estimate the project could reduce Edmonton’s unsheltered homeless population by up to **35%** over the next three years.
Mayor Amarjeet Sohi praised the move, calling it “a shining example of civic leadership in action.”
> “Evan Bouchard isn’t just a world-class athlete — he’s a world-class human being. This is going to change lives. Full stop.”
### NHL and Player Reactions
The hockey world has also taken note. Teammate Connor McDavid said he wasn’t surprised by Bouchard’s generosity.
> “That’s just who Evan is. No cameras, no ego. Just heart.”
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman released a statement applauding Bouchard’s donation: *“The league is incredibly proud of Evan’s selfless actions. He exemplifies the very best of what the NHL stands for.”*
### What’s Next?
Bouchard says he plans to stay actively involved in the initiative throughout its development — not just as a donor, but as an advocate.
> “This isn’t a one-time thing. I want to help build something sustainable. A model that can be used in other cities. No one should freeze to death in a Canadian winter. Not on our watch.”
