In a stunning and deeply moving act of generosity, Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat announced today that he is donating his entire $20.1 million signing bonus and recent sponsorship earnings to support a homeless shelter initiative in the Metro Bears area.
The funds will go directly toward the construction and long-term operation of a new transitional housing project that will include 150 permanent supportive housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds—the largest private athlete-funded housing initiative in Illinois history.
“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,” Sweat said during an emotional press conference at the project’s future site on the South Side. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”
Sweat, 28, who joined the Bears in 2023 and quickly became a defensive cornerstone, emphasized that the decision to donate was personal. Raised in difficult circumstances and having experienced housing insecurity during parts of his childhood, Sweat said the issue has remained close to his heart.
The project, which will be run in partnership with the nonprofit Metro Bears Homeless, aims to not only provide shelter but also job training, mental health support, addiction counseling, and other critical wraparound services.
“This isn’t just about beds and buildings,” Sweat emphasized. “It’s about restoring dignity. It’s about hope. It’s about community.”
A New Standard for Athlete Activism
In an era when athlete philanthropy is becoming more visible, Montez Sweat’s donation stands out—not just for its size, but for its focus and urgency. The $20.1 million donation represents the totality of his signing bonus and recent endorsement deals, a bold and nearly unprecedented move in professional sports.
“Montez has set a new bar,” said Bears Head Coach Matt Eberflus. “His leadership on the field is incredible, but what he’s doing off the field—this is legacy stuff. This is bigger than football.”
The NFL community has responded with an outpouring of support, with players and coaches across the league commending Sweat’s commitment. Rumors are already circulating that several current and former players may join him in funding ongoing operational costs or expanding similar programs in their hometowns.
Building for the Future
Construction on the new facility is set to begin later this year, with doors expected to open by late 2026. The location, currently a vacant lot once slated for luxury condos, will be transformed into a state-of-the-art community center that includes green spaces, a daycare, and an on-site health clinic in addition to housing units.
City officials praised the effort, noting that it comes at a critical time when Chicago’s homeless population has been on the rise due to inflation, rising rents, and the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Montez Sweat is doing what many talk about but few actually do—using his success to make a real, lasting impact,” said Mayor Jaylen Rivers. “This gift will change lives for generations.”
More Than a Moment
As he left the podium, Sweat was asked what he hoped people would take away from this donation.
He paused. Then said quietly, “That it’s not about being a hero. It’s about being human.”
