BREAKING NEWS: Former Patriots Star Julian Edelman Invests $8.7 Million to Transform Mansion into Shelter for Homeless Youth in Boston
BOSTON — Former New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman has made headlines off the field, announcing a bold and compassionate move to combat youth homelessness in the city he once called home. Edelman has invested $8.7 million of his own money to convert a historic Boston property into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth.
The three-story, 19th-century mansion located in the Back Bay neighborhood will undergo extensive renovations to become a safe haven for at-risk young people. The facility is set to include private rooms, mental health and counseling services, job training programs, and recreational areas, all designed to offer long-term support and stability.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my life and career,” Edelman said at a press conference Monday. “Now it’s time to give back in a meaningful way. Every young person deserves a chance, a place to feel safe, and the support to build a future.”
The shelter, expected to open in spring 2026, will be operated in partnership with local nonprofit Bridge Over Troubled Waters, which has served homeless and runaway youth in Boston for over 50 years. Officials from the nonprofit praised Edelman’s commitment, calling it “a game-changer” for the city.
Mayor Michelle Wu also applauded the initiative, saying, “Julian’s leadership is inspiring. This is the kind of public-private partnership our city needs to truly make an impact.”
Edelman, a three-time Super Bowl champion and longtime fan favorite, retired from the NFL in 2021. Since then, he’s turned his attention to media, entrepreneurship — and now, philanthropy.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with the shelter aiming to serve up to 60 youths at a time.