Memphis, TN — In a heartfelt and transformative act of generosity, NBA star Ja Morant has invested $3.6 million of his own money to convert a historic Memphis property into a fully operational shelter for homeless youth. The Memphis Grizzlies point guard, known for his electric playing style and dynamic leadership, is now making headlines off the court for a remarkable gesture that’s already being hailed as one of the most impactful philanthropic acts by a professional athlete this year.
The project, officially named Rise & Shine Youth Shelter, aims to serve homeless and at-risk youth aged 13 to 21 throughout Memphis and the surrounding areas. The facility will offer not just a roof and a bed, but also access to food, counseling, mentorship, education support, job training, and mental health services. It is set to open later this year.
The house, a 19th-century estate located near downtown Memphis, was purchased by Morant earlier this year. What was once an abandoned and dilapidated structure has undergone extensive renovations over the past six months. Now, it boasts 30 sleeping units, a commercial kitchen, community gathering spaces, classrooms, a library, a wellness room, and on-site counseling offices.
Morant, speaking at a press conference on Monday, said the idea stemmed from a visit to a local youth center in 2023 where he met several teenagers experiencing homelessness. “Hearing their stories changed me,” Morant said. “I realized that having talent or success doesn’t mean much if you’re not using it to help someone else. I wanted to create a place where kids could feel safe, supported, and inspired to dream again.”
The shelter will operate under a non-profit organization also funded by Morant called The 12 Steps Foundation — a nod to his jersey number. The foundation will partner with local organizations, including schools, health providers, and social services, to ensure a wide range of care for shelter residents.
Community leaders and city officials have praised Morant’s efforts, noting the city’s growing crisis around youth homelessness. According to data from the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services, there are more than 4,000 homeless or housing-insecure youth across the state, with hundreds in the Memphis area alone.
“Ja’s investment isn’t just financial — it’s emotional, it’s personal, and it’s community-driven,” said Mayor Paul Young. “This shelter is going to save lives. It’s that simple. And it’s a model for what professional athletes and public figures can do when they truly care about the places they call home.”
The NBA has also taken note, with Commissioner Adam Silver commending Morant’s leadership. “Ja has faced challenges and scrutiny, but this act speaks volumes about who he is and the man he’s becoming. The league is proud to support initiatives like this that reflect the power of basketball to change lives.”
Morant’s move comes at a time when athletes across the country are becoming more involved in social justice, mental health awareness, and youth development. But few have made as direct and personal an investment as Morant has with the Rise & Shine Youth Shelter.
The facility will run 24/7 and will offer both emergency and long-term residency options. Staffed by licensed professionals and volunteers, the shelter will maintain a strong emphasis on holistic development, helping youth transition from crisis situations to stable, independent living.
Morant also announced that he will be personally involved with programming at the shelter, including hosting weekly dinners with residents, funding scholarships for those pursuing education, and bringing in guest speakers, including other athletes, artists, and community leaders.
“For me, this isn’t a one-time thing,” Morant said. “This is a lifelong commitment. I want every kid who walks through those doors to know that somebody believes in them — because sometimes, that’s all it takes to change everything.”
As the buzz around the project spreads, community members have already begun volunteering to assist with the launch, and local businesses have pledged additional funding and supplies.
With the Rise & Shine Youth Shelter, Ja Morant is not just making a donation — he’s making a difference. And in doing so, he’s showing the world that true greatness isn’t just measured in points or championships, but in compassion, leadership, and the lives you lift along the way.
