Breaking news: Cooper De Jean of Philadelphia eagles has invested \$5.6 million to transform a house into a shelter for homeless youth in Philadelphia eagles

BREAKING NEWS: Cooper DeJean of Philadelphia Eagles Invests $5.6 Million to Transform Abandoned Home into Shelter for Homeless Youth in Philadelphia

In a heartwarming and powerful display of purpose beyond football, Philadelphia Eagles rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean has made headlines for all the right reasons. The 2024 first-round draft pick has officially invested $5.6 million of his own earnings to transform a once-abandoned historic house in North Philadelphia into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth, proving that his commitment to the city stretches far beyond the football field.

The initiative, named “DeJean’s House of Hope,” will serve as a 24/7 safe haven for homeless and at-risk youth ages 12 to 21, offering not only beds and meals but also mentorship programs, education access, mental health services, and job training opportunities.

A Deeply Personal Mission

At just 22 years old, Cooper DeJean has quickly become a fan favorite not only for his skillset as a shutdown cornerback but for his grounded values and humility. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony alongside Eagles staff and Philadelphia city leaders, DeJean shared that the project was inspired by personal experiences and stories from teammates and community members.

“I’ve had friends growing up who didn’t have a place to stay. I’ve seen what happens when young people slip through the cracks. This city gave me an opportunity, and I want to make sure someone else gets theirs too,” DeJean said emotionally.

He added,

“A house isn’t just walls—it’s safety, it’s structure, it’s a chance to dream again. That’s what I want this place to be.”

Inside the Shelter

Located in a once-blighted area near Temple University, the three-story structure will feature:

• 30 private sleeping units, including several family rooms
• A full-service cafeteria and kitchen
• Computer labs and a digital learning center
• Therapy rooms and wellness spaces for mental health support
• A gym and recreation room
• On-site staff available 24/7, including social workers, security, and peer counselors

Construction is already underway, with a grand opening projected for early spring 2026.

Community and Team Response

Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni called DeJean’s actions “incredible,” stating:

“Cooper’s not just a great player—he’s a great man. His leadership off the field is just beginning, and the people of Philadelphia are lucky to have him.”

Several teammates, including Jalen Hurts and Haason Reddick, attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Hurts told reporters,

“This is what it means to wear midnight green. To serve. To lead. Cooper’s already a star in this city.”

A Ripple Effect

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker also praised DeJean’s generosity, confirming that the city will match his donation with additional funding for wraparound services and staffing. Nonprofits and youth organizations across the city have already expressed interest in partnering with the shelter for long-term programming.

Final Thoughts

Cooper DeJean has yet to play a full NFL season, but he’s already made an all-pro impact in the hearts of Philadelphia’s most vulnerable youth. By turning an empty structure into a sanctuary of second chances, he has shown that true greatness begins not on the field—but in the lives you uplift along the way.