Cincinnati Reds rising star Elly De La Cruz is showing that his talents extend far beyond the baseball diamond. In a remarkable display of compassion and social responsibility, De La Cruz has invested $3.6 million to convert a large residential property into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth. This significant move reflects his deep commitment to giving back to the community and using his platform to support those most in need.
The shelter, which is currently under renovation, will offer more than just a roof over young people’s heads. De La Cruz has ensured the project focuses on providing a holistic support system—complete with access to counseling, career readiness programs, and educational resources. The facility is designed to be a safe, stable, and empowering environment for youth who have been displaced or are facing housing insecurity.
De La Cruz, who has quickly become a fan favorite in Cincinnati for his athleticism and energy on the field, says this initiative is close to his heart. Having seen the challenges many young people face, especially in underserved communities, he felt compelled to act. His involvement goes beyond funding—he’s been active in planning discussions, helping design spaces that feel more like home than a shelter.
Community leaders and fans alike have applauded De La Cruz for his generosity and leadership. At just the beginning of his MLB career, he’s already leaving a lasting legacy—not just in sports, but in social impact as well.