In an inspiring move that has captured the hearts of basketball fans and community members alike, Indiana Pacers rising star Tyrese Haliburton has announced a groundbreaking $7.5 million investment to transform a historic property in Indianapolis into a shelter and resource center for homeless youth. The initiative, dubbed “Tyrese’s Haven,” will provide essential services to young people in need, offering not only housing but also educational resources, job training, mental health support, and mentorship.
The news was revealed at a press conference on the steps of the property — a sprawling, century-old mansion in the heart of Indianapolis — which will undergo a complete renovation to accommodate the shelter. For Haliburton, this investment is deeply personal, and he’s using his platform to address the growing crisis of youth homelessness in his community.
“This Is About Giving Back to the City That Gave Me Everything”
At just 24 years old, Haliburton has already established himself as one of the NBA’s most promising players, known for his court vision, leadership, and poise. However, it is his character off the court that is now earning him widespread recognition. Speaking with genuine emotion, Haliburton explained why he chose to invest his own money into such a significant project.
“Indianapolis has welcomed me with open arms since I joined the Pacers, and I feel like it’s my responsibility to give back,” Haliburton said. “This isn’t just about building a shelter — it’s about creating opportunities and offering a fresh start for kids who may feel like they have nowhere else to turn.”
The shelter will be a haven for homeless youth between the ages of 12 and 24, providing up to 50 beds. The space will be more than just a roof over their heads; it will offer educational programs, job-readiness workshops, mental health support, and community-building activities designed to help these young people thrive.
The Project: A Comprehensive Approach to Youth Homelessness
Haliburton’s investment will cover the purchase, renovation, and initial operating costs of the shelter for the first few years. The home, which has been vacant for several years, will be renovated to meet the specific needs of the shelter and will include common areas, private rooms, a computer lab, counseling spaces, and a community kitchen.
One of the most innovative aspects of Tyrese’s Haven is the inclusion of a multi-purpose room for skill-building programs. The space will offer workshops in fields like technology, culinary arts, and trades, as well as physical fitness and recreation. Haliburton, who himself is passionate about using sports as a tool for personal development, emphasized that a gymnasium would also be built as part of the shelter’s amenities.
“We want to make sure that these kids have everything they need to succeed in life,” Haliburton explained. “That means giving them a safe space, a support system, and the tools to develop their skills and interests.”
Community and NBA Reactions
The announcement has generated an overwhelming amount of praise from both local community leaders and his Pacers teammates, who have rallied behind Haliburton’s vision.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett expressed his gratitude, calling the initiative “a monumental step in addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our city.” Hogsett went on to say, “Tyrese has shown incredible maturity and a deep sense of responsibility, and his actions today reflect his commitment to making Indianapolis a better place for all.”
Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard also weighed in, stating, “Tyrese is the type of leader you want in your community. He doesn’t just lead by example on the court but has a genuine desire to give back in ways that will positively impact the lives of those who need it most.”
Fans have also expressed their admiration for Haliburton’s dedication. Social media has been flooded with messages of support, with many praising him for using his platform and wealth to support the most vulnerable members of society.
“Tyrese Haliburton is a true role model. So proud to be a Pacers fan right now,” one fan tweeted. “This is exactly the kind of leadership our world needs.”
Addressing the Growing Issue of Youth Homelessness
Youth homelessness is a growing issue in Indianapolis, with an increasing number of young people finding themselves on the streets due to family instability, economic hardship, or aging out of the foster care system. Haliburton’s decision to take action comes at a time when more than 1,000 youth in Indianapolis alone are experiencing homelessness, according to local reports.
Haliburton’s connection to the cause runs deep. During a visit to a local shelter last year, he met a teenager who had been living on the streets for over a year after leaving an unstable home. Haliburton described the encounter as a turning point, realizing that his platform could make a tangible difference.
“That conversation stuck with me,” Haliburton said. “I wanted to do something real, something lasting. It’s easy to throw money at a cause, but I wanted to build something that would have a lasting impact.”
Looking Ahead
Construction on Tyrese’s Haven is expected to begin in late 2025, with the shelter slated to open in early 2027. In the meantime, Haliburton has launched a foundation to raise additional funds and encourage others in the sports community to join the fight against youth homelessness.
“This is just the beginning,” Haliburton said with determination. “We’ll keep pushing, keep helping, and keep showing these kids that they matter.”
For Tyrese Haliburton, his legacy as a basketball player is already being written, but it’s the legacy he’s creating off the court that will truly make him a hero in the eyes of many.