LSU Tigers’ Beloved LB Thomas Harold Perkins Jr. Invests $7.4 Million to Transform Family Estate into Shelter for Homeless Youth in..
In a powerful and deeply personal gesture of community service, LSU Tigers’ star linebacker Thomas Harold Perkins Jr., known to fans and teammates alike as “T.H.,” has announced a groundbreaking philanthropic initiative: a $7.4 million investment to convert his late grandmother’s estate into a transitional shelter and resource center for homeless and at-risk youth in Louisiana.
At a press conference held outside the historic Perkins family property in North Baton Rouge, a visibly emotional Perkins shared his plans alongside local officials, non-profit leaders, and family members. The initiative, which he has named *The Haven at Perkins Place*, will offer temporary housing, counseling, education support, vocational training, and mentorship to youth ages 14–24 who are facing homelessness or aging out of foster care.
### “A Promise Kept to My Grandmother”
“This house raised me. My grandma raised me. And when I made it to LSU, I promised her I’d never forget where I came from,” Perkins said. “She always opened her door to anyone who needed a meal, a bed, or just someone to listen. This project is me continuing that promise, in her name.”
The sprawling 8,000-square-foot home, located on seven acres of wooded land, will be completely renovated over the next 12 months. The plans include the addition of 20 bedrooms, a dining hall, a mental health clinic, and a recreation center. The property will also feature outdoor green spaces, community gardens, and a multi-purpose gymnasium — a nod to Perkins’ passion for sports and physical wellness.
### A First for the State — and the SEC
Perkins’ investment is believed to be one of the largest single donations made by an active NCAA athlete toward homelessness prevention. The move is even more remarkable given Perkins’ continued status as a top linebacker in college football, and a projected first-round NFL Draft pick in 2026.
“Thomas Harold Perkins Jr. is not just a football player — he’s a community leader,” said LSU Athletic Director Michael M. Woodall. “What he’s doing today goes far beyond the gridiron. He’s showing every young athlete that their platform can be used for real, lasting change.”
### Partnership with Local Nonprofits
Perkins is partnering with Baton Rouge-based nonprofits including *Youth on the Rise*, *HopeHouse LA*, and *BR Cares* to operate the shelter and provide comprehensive support services. In addition to funding renovations, Perkins has committed to covering operational costs for the first three years and has launched the “Perkins Legacy Fund,” a foundation aimed at securing long-term donations from corporate sponsors, LSU alumni, and philanthropists.
“We are humbled by Thomas’ generosity and vision,” said Angela Roussel, Executive Director of Youth on the Rise. “Too often, youth in crisis are left with nowhere to go. *The Haven at Perkins Place* will be a sanctuary of safety, hope, and possibility.”
### A National Conversation
The announcement has already sparked national media attention, with ESPN, CBS Sports, and The Players’ Tribune highlighting the linebacker’s groundbreaking move. Social media erupted with praise, with the hashtag **#HavenAtPerkinsPlace** trending within hours of the announcement.
Current and former LSU teammates shared their admiration, with quarterback Jaylen Whitfield tweeting: “My brother T.H. isn’t just a beast on the field — he’s a hero in real life. Proud doesn’t even begin to describe it.”
Even LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly offered a moving statement: “This is what it means to wear purple and gold — to stand for something bigger than yourself. T.H. is the heartbeat of this team.”
### Future Plans and Community Involvement
In addition to immediate housing and services, *The Haven at Perkins Place* will launch a mentorship program pairing former LSU athletes and local professionals with shelter residents. The program aims to foster guidance in education, employment, financial literacy, and personal development.
“We’re not just giving them a bed. We’re giving them a chance — a future,” Perkins said. “No kid should have to sleep under a bridge or go hungry. If I can stop even one from going through what I went through, then this is all worth it.”
The first residents are expected to move in by spring 2026, with Perkins stating that he will personally help welcome them.
### A Legacy Bigger Than Football
With his leadership both on and off the field, Thomas Harold Perkins Jr. is quickly becoming one of the most inspiring figures in college sports. His choice to invest in his community while at the height of his athletic career is setting a new precedent — and leaving a legacy far deeper than trophies or touchdowns.