BREAKING NEWS : Indiana fever Former superstar Tamika Catchings, 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
In a groundbreaking act of generosity and purpose, Indiana Fever former superstar and WNBA Hall of Famer **Tamika Catchings** has donated her entire **\$12.9 million** in recent bonus and sponsorship earnings to a new **homeless shelter and transitional housing initiative** in Indianapolis.
The initiative, named **“Hope House 300,”** will fund the development of **150 permanent supportive housing units** and **300 shelter beds**, aiming to provide immediate relief and long-term stability to some of the city’s most vulnerable populations.
> **“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew this was where I had to step in,”** Catchings said during a press conference this morning at the construction site of the upcoming facility. **“This is bigger than basketball. It’s about restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and making sure no one is left out in the cold—literally or figuratively.”**
### A Deeply Personal Mission
Catchings, whose childhood included moments of hardship, said her decision was rooted in her personal experiences.
> “There were times in our life when stability felt just out of reach,” she shared, holding back tears. **“I made a promise to myself that if I was ever in a position to help, I wouldn’t hesitate. Today, I’m keeping that promise.”**
### Community Impact
The \$12.9 million donation will jumpstart the first phase of the project, which includes:
* **150 permanent supportive housing units** for individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness
* **300 emergency shelter beds**, designed with trauma-informed care in mind
* On-site **mental health services, job training programs,** and **childcare facilities**
* A **community kitchen and learning center**
The facility, projected to open in early 2026, is expected to serve more than **10,000 people annually**.
### Applause from the City and Beyond
Indianapolis Mayor **Julia Thompson** praised Catchings’ act as “one of the most selfless and transformative gifts the city has ever received.”
> “Tamika has always been a champion on and off the court. Today, she’s cemented her legacy not just as a sports icon, but as a humanitarian hero,” the mayor said.
The WNBA also released a statement, calling Catchings’ donation a “reflection of the league’s highest values of leadership, community, and compassion.”
### The Legacy of a Champion
Tamika Catchings, known for her unmatched grit, tenacity, and leadership during her time with the Indiana Fever (2001–2016), has long been involved in community service. Through her **Catch the Stars Foundation**, she’s championed youth empowerment, education, and fitness.
This donation, however, marks her largest public philanthropic gesture to date.
> “I don’t need applause,” she said, smiling. **“I just want to be a part of the solution. If even one person finds hope because of this, then it’s all worth it.”**
### “Hope House 300” – Building a Future
Construction is set to begin next month, and the project has already attracted interest from other donors, city officials, and national organizations eager to support or replicate the model.
For those interested in supporting or volunteering with the initiative, visit [HopeHouse300.org](http://HopeHouse300.org) for more information.
