In a move that left a city in tears and a nation inspired, former Pittsburgh Pirates legend Roberto Clemente has once again proven that greatness extends far beyond the baseball field.
At a press conference held today near Pittsburgh’s North Shore, Clemente announced he is donating the entirety of his $12.9 million bonus sponsorship earnings to a new homeless shelter initiative, which will fund 150 permanent housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds for the city’s most vulnerable residents.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Clemente said, his voice filled with emotion. “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 too many people do. This is just one step in making sure they don’t have to.”
The initiative, called “Safe Harbor Pittsburgh,” is a partnership between Clemente, the City of Pittsburgh, and several nonprofit organizations focused on transitional housing, mental health services, and job training.
The housing complex will break ground this fall in the Hill District, a neighborhood historically rich in Black and Latino culture but long affected by disinvestment. The shelter units will prioritize families, veterans, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Case managers and onsite services will help transition residents into stable, long-term housing.
Pittsburgh Mayor Johanna Fields called it “a landmark moment for our city.”
“This is what leadership looks like. Clemente is not just a sports icon — he’s a humanitarian. His legacy continues to lift up the people he never forgot.”
Though retired from Major League Baseball, Clemente remains one of the most revered figures in Pittsburgh history. His commitment to service, rooted in both his Puerto Rican heritage and his deep empathy, has always been central to who he is.
Fans gathered outside the event holding signs that read “Clemente Cares” and “From the Field to the Streets — Thank You, #21.”
As Clemente put it:
“This isn’t charity. It’s a responsibility. If we have more than we need, we share it. That’s how we build a team — not just in baseball, but in life.”
Construction on the housing units is scheduled to begin in November, with the first residents expected to move in by late 2026.
