Eberechi Eze Donates $25.5 Million to Transform Family Home Into Shelter for Homeless People
London, May 7, 2025 – In an extraordinary act of generosity, Crystal Palace and England midfielder Eberechi Eze has announced a £20 million ($25.5 million USD) donation to transform his family’s former home in South London into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless individuals and families.
The project, named “Eze’s Haven,” will provide temporary housing, job training programs, mental health resources, and youth mentorship opportunities for vulnerable members of the community. The shelter is expected to open in early 2026 and will house up to 120 residents at a time.
“Growing up in South London, I saw the struggles people around me faced,” Eze said at a press conference outside the property. “This is about giving back to the community that shaped me, about giving people hope and a path forward.”
The £20 million pledge will cover full renovation costs, operational funding for the shelter’s first five years, and salaries for professional support staff. The facility will include dormitory rooms, a communal dining space, classrooms, counseling offices, and a small football pitch to encourage recreation and community building.
Premier League colleagues, celebrities, and fans flooded social media with praise for Eze’s selfless gesture. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner called Eze “a role model both on and off the pitch.” England teammate Bukayo Saka posted: “Massive respect to Ebs for this—truly inspirational.”
The Mayor of London issued a statement commending Eze’s leadership, noting the shelter is expected to reduce homelessness in the borough by 15% within its first two years.
Fans on X (formerly Twitter) quickly made the news trend across the UK, with one viral post declaring: “Eze scores his greatest goal—against homelessness.”
Eze’s philanthropic move comes during his standout 2024–25 season, where he’s been pivotal for both club and country. The midfielder said he plans to be hands-on with the project and hinted at future community initiatives.
“Football gave me a platform, but it’s what I do with it that matters most,” Eze added. “I hope this is just the beginning.”
Construction on “Eze’s Haven” is slated to begin this summer.
