In a heart-stirring act of generosity and compassion, former Pardes San Diego baseball icon Tony Gwynn has donated the entirety of his $12.9 million sponsorship bonus to a groundbreaking housing initiative aimed at tackling homelessness in San Diego.
The donation will fully fund the construction of 150 permanent housing units and provide 300 shelter beds, part of a long-term solution to help individuals transition from the streets to safe, stable living conditions.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Gwynn said at an emotional press conference Thursday morning. “And I know if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way. No one deserves to sleep on the sidewalk. But we need more than sympathy — we need action, and this is my start.”
Gwynn, 45, who grew up in southeastern San Diego, has long been vocal about the housing crisis affecting the region. His donation will go to the San Diego HomeFirst Initiative, a public-private partnership focused on building supportive housing and offering wraparound services such as mental health care, addiction recovery, and job placement.
City officials praised the move as a catalytic moment in the fight against homelessness.
“This is the kind of leadership that changes lives,” said San Diego Mayor Carla Reyes. “Tony isn’t just giving money — he’s giving hope. He’s challenging us all to step up.”
The housing complex, expected to break ground in early 2026, will be named “Gwynn Haven” in honor of the donation. It will prioritize housing for veterans, families with children, and individuals with long-term disabilities.
Gwynn’s act has already inspired a wave of support from local businesses, with several pledging additional matching funds and in-kind donations.
“This isn’t about charity — it’s about justice,” Gwynn concluded. “Everyone deserves a roof over their head, and if I can help build even a part of that roof, I will.
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