Just Now: Coach Ben Johnson of the Chicago Bears Invests $3.6 Million to Transform Home into Shelter for Homeless Youth in Chicago
In an inspiring act of generosity and leadership, Coach Ben Johnson of the Chicago Bears has made headlines by investing $3.6 million of his personal wealth to convert a residential property into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth in Chicago. The decision, announced earlier today, has already begun to stir public admiration and social media praise, and is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of countless vulnerable young people in the city.
The house, a large three-story structure located on the South Side of Chicago, will be repurposed to provide temporary and transitional housing for up to 30 homeless youth at a time. The facility will offer more than just a bed and meals—it will also include access to educational resources, mental health counseling, job readiness training, and mentorship programs. Johnson’s vision for the shelter, dubbed “The Haven,” is rooted in providing holistic support that helps young people build stable, independent lives.
“This isn’t just about giving someone a place to sleep,” Johnson said during a press conference. “It’s about creating a safe space where young people can breathe, reset, and find a path forward. Everyone deserves a shot at building a future, and too many of our kids never get that chance.”
The motivation behind this ambitious project stems from Johnson’s own upbringing. Raised in a working-class neighborhood in Michigan, he spoke candidly about having friends who experienced homelessness and instability during their youth. “I remember being 16 and not fully understanding how tough it was for some of my friends just to get through the day,” he shared. “That stayed with me.”
The transformation of the house is already underway, with construction crews working alongside community organizations and city officials to ensure the facility meets safety codes and serves the needs of the population it aims to help. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with plans to begin admitting youth in early 2026.
The announcement comes at a critical time for Chicago, where youth homelessness remains a growing crisis. According to a recent report by the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, more than 20,000 young people experienced some form of homelessness in the city last year. With limited access to shelter beds and social services, many are forced to sleep in unsafe conditions or turn to high-risk survival strategies.
Advocates and city leaders have applauded Johnson’s actions, calling it a rare example of a public figure not only speaking out about social issues but actively using their platform and resources to create change. Mayor Brandon Johnson (no relation) commented, “This is what leadership looks like—not just on the field, but in our communities. Coach Johnson is setting a powerful example.”
Chicago Bears players and staff have also voiced their support, with some even offering to volunteer their time or donate to expand the project. “It’s amazing to see Coach put his money where his heart is,” said Bears linebacker Roquan Smith. “We talk about being a team—and this right here, it’s the biggest team play I’ve ever seen.”
While Coach Johnson made clear that he is not looking for recognition, the spotlight is now firmly on him—and perhaps more importantly, on the youth he hopes to uplift. With “The Haven,” he aims to give Chicago’s homeless youth more than shelter. He’s offering them hope, dignity, and a real chance at a better future.
“This is just the beginning,” Johnson said. “If one kid finds a way out of a dark place because of this, then it’s worth every penny.”
