In a moment that has captivated hearts far beyond the basketball court, New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns announced he is donating his entire $53.1 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to help combat homelessness in the Metro Knicks area. The funds will directly support the construction of 150 permanent housing units and the addition of 300 shelter beds for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
“This is the best news we could hope for,” said local advocate Marie Delgado, who has worked with homeless populations in Manhattan for over two decades. “This isn’t just charity — this is transformational action.”
“No One Deserves to Sleep on a Sidewalk”
At a press conference on Tuesday morning, a visibly emotional Towns explained his personal connection to the issue.
“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,” Towns said. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”
The project — a collaboration between the Karl-Anthony Towns Foundation, local nonprofits, and the city of New York — is already in motion. The housing initiative will break ground this fall in Queens and the Bronx, with a projected completion date in mid-2026.
The shelters will also offer wraparound services including job training, mental health counseling, and addiction recovery programs.
A Star on and Off the Court
Towns, who joined the Knicks in a blockbuster trade in 2024, has quickly become a fan favorite — not just for his dominant play, but for his community presence. This act of generosity, however, has elevated his legacy to something far greater than basketball.
Mayor Eric Adams praised the move in a statement: “Karl-Anthony Towns is showing what true leadership looks like. His contribution will change lives — not just temporarily, but for generations to come.”
A Ripple Effect
Towns’ donation has already sparked momentum. Several of his sponsors, including Nike and Gatorade, have pledged additional funds to match portions of his donation. Knicks owner James Dolan has also reportedly begun discussions on allocating team resources to expand similar initiatives in other boroughs.
“It’s not about me,” Towns said. “It’s about making sure the people who cheer for us — who live and breathe New York — know they’re not forgotten. This is home, and I want everyone here to have one.”
A New Era of Athlete Activism
Towns joins a growing movement of professional athletes using their platforms and paychecks to spark real-world change. But what makes this moment stand out is the sheer scale and personal commitment behind the donation.
Community leaders are calling on other public figures to follow Towns’ example, especially in cities where homelessness remains a major crisis.
As the Knicks prepare for the upcoming season, it’s clear that Karl-Anthony Towns is already a champion in the eyes of many — not just for the stats he puts up, but for the lives he’s choosing to lift up.
