Ken Roczen Donates Entire $18.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Mattstedt 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

In a stunning act of generosity and social consciousness, motocross superstar Ken Roczen has donated his entire $18.9 million in bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund a major homelessness initiative in his hometown of Mattstedt, Germany. The donation will go toward the construction of 150 long-term supportive housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds, marking one of the largest single-athlete charitable contributions in recent memory.

Roczen made the announcement during an emotional press conference held at a local civic center in Mattstedt, surrounded by family, fans, local leaders, and members of the community who will directly benefit from the project.

“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,” Roczen told reporters. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”

A Champion Beyond the Track

Ken Roczen is no stranger to adversity. The German-born motocross rider, known globally for his grit, resilience, and comeback stories, has become an icon not only for his racing success but for his off-track integrity. After recovering from multiple career-threatening injuries, Roczen has consistently used his platform to speak about perseverance, mental health, and now—social justice.

This latest move further cements Roczen’s legacy as more than an athlete; he’s an advocate, a leader, and now, a philanthropist with a vision for lasting change.

The $18.9 million donation includes earnings from his recent 2024 season wins, major brand sponsorships, and performance bonuses. Rather than spending the money on personal luxuries or investments, Roczen directed the entire sum to a cause deeply personal to him.

A Hometown Effort with Global Resonance

Mattstedt, a small town in central Germany with a population of just under 3,000, has quietly struggled with homelessness over the past decade due to rising housing costs and a lack of infrastructure for mental health and addiction recovery.

The Roczen-funded project will include:

150 permanent housing units: Affordable apartments with wraparound services like counseling, job training, and healthcare.
300 shelter beds: Emergency facilities with meals, showers, and medical access.
Community outreach center: Offering mental health resources, addiction recovery programs, and housing placement assistance.
Youth and family services: Special resources for homeless youth and single-parent families.

The project will break ground later this year and is expected to open in phases beginning in mid-2026.

Local Leaders Applaud Roczen’s Vision

Mayor Jürgen Klein of Mattstedt called the donation “a miracle wrapped in humility.”

“Ken Roczen didn’t just write a check—he wrote a new future for hundreds of people in this community. His generosity is unprecedented,” Klein said.

City council members and nonprofit housing leaders also expressed deep gratitude, noting that Roczen’s contribution will accelerate a decade of work that had previously been stalled due to funding shortages.

Katrin Meissner, director of the local shelter nonprofit “Neue Wege,” shared:

“Ken didn’t just drop in with a camera crew. He sat with our clients. He listened. He asked, ‘What do you really need?’ And then he gave us more than we could have dreamed.”

Why Homelessness?

During the press conference, Roczen recounted his early memories of homelessness, including seeing people sleep outside train stations and in public parks. Growing up in a modest household, he recalled the unease and helplessness he felt even as a child.

“I never forgot those faces. I’ve been fortunate in my career, but I know luck and privilege played a role. It could’ve gone the other way for me, easily. That’s why I give—because it’s not about deserving, it’s about opportunity.”

Roczen also pointed out that homelessness is not just an urban issue or a foreign problem—it exists everywhere, even in small towns like Mattstedt. His aim is to spark a broader conversation and action plan both in Germany and abroad.

Fellow Athletes and Sponsors React

News of Roczen’s donation rippled across the sports world and social media within hours. Athletes from across disciplines praised his act as one of the most selfless gestures ever made by a professional competitor.

Supercross rival Eli Tomac posted:

“Total respect to Ken Roczen. This is what it means to use your platform for real good.”

Red Bull, one of Roczen’s major sponsors, released a statement saying they are “immensely proud to support an athlete who exemplifies leadership and compassion,” and announced they would match $2 million of Roczen’s donation with additional support for youth housing initiatives.

Beyond the Donation: Building a Movement

Roczen emphasized that the donation is just the beginning. He intends to stay involved in the project long-term, working with local governments, social workers, and architects to ensure the initiative reflects the needs of the community.

He also plans to launch a nonprofit organization later this year—“Ride Forward”—which will focus on helping athletes contribute meaningfully to social causes. The foundation will also offer small grants for local shelters and housing groups in Germany and the U.S.

“This isn’t just about bricks and beds. It’s about dignity, hope, and having a place to belong,” Roczen said.

Community Response

The response in Mattstedt has been overwhelming. Residents are calling the initiative “a gift from heaven.” One formerly homeless man, Thomas, now employed through a community cleanup program, said through tears:

“I never thought someone like Ken Roczen would even notice us. Now I know someone does care. Maybe things can change.”

Local schools plan to honor Roczen with a civic award, and a mural is already being commissioned near the future shelter site to commemorate his gift.

Final Thoughts: Legacy in Action

Ken Roczen’s $18.9 million donation is more than a financial contribution—it’s a bold, compassionate stand in the fight against homelessness. It challenges the sports world to look beyond trophies and podiums, and toward the kind of legacy that saves lives and uplifts entire communities.

As one fan wrote on Instagram: