New York, NY – May 8, 2025 – In a stunning act of generosity, New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso announced today that he is donating the entirety of his $20 million in recent performance bonuses and sponsorship earnings to charitable organizations and homeless relief programs across the United States.
The announcement came in a heartfelt press conference outside Citi Field, where Alonso was joined by leaders of several non-profits, including Habitat for Humanity, Feeding America, Covenant House, and New York’s Coalition for the Homeless.
Alonso’s Full Statement:
“First and foremost, I want to thank the Mets organization, my teammates, and the fans who’ve supported me throughout every step of this journey. It’s been an incredible ride so far, and I’m proud to wear the Mets uniform and represent this great city.
“Today, I’m making an announcement that’s very personal to me. I’ve decided to donate the entirety of my $20 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to charities that focus on homelessness, food insecurity, youth development, and veterans’ care. Every single dollar.
“Why? Because I’ve come to understand that success means nothing if you’re not lifting others as you rise. When I walk out of the stadium, I see people sleeping in the streets just blocks away. I see kids asking for food at subway stops. I see veterans who served this country, now living without shelter. It’s heartbreaking. And I can’t pretend I don’t see it just because I live a different life.
“Growing up in Florida, my family wasn’t wealthy. We had to work hard for everything. But we always had a roof over our heads and food on the table. I’ve met too many people—kids, families, veterans—who can’t say the same. So I decided I had to do something about it.
“This donation will be distributed across multiple nonprofits doing incredible work every day. We’re partnering with Habitat for Humanity to build affordable housing. With Feeding America to ensure no child or family goes hungry. With Covenant House to support at-risk and homeless youth. And with several local organizations in New York and other MLB cities providing shelter, mental health support, and employment programs.
“To the people receiving this help: You matter. You are not invisible. You are not forgotten. You are not alone. If I can play even a small part in making your life a little easier, then every home run, every at-bat, every dollar earned has been worth it.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate. But I also believe that with great privilege comes great responsibility. We athletes are role models whether we like it or not. And if I can use this platform to do good—to inspire others to give, to help, to act—then I want to do that every day.
“This isn’t a one-time gesture. I’m starting the Alonso Foundation to continue this mission long-term. Our focus will be housing, hunger, and hope. We’ll work with trusted partners, fund direct services, and advocate for systemic change.
“To my fans: Thank you for believing in me. I hope you’ll believe in this cause, too. Let’s do more than cheer for home runs—let’s build homes, fill plates, and lift lives together.
“To my fellow players, my message is simple: You can do this too. Whether it’s $100 or $1 million, your support can change lives. Let’s be known not just for what we do on the field, but what we do off of it.
“I’ve hit some big moments in my career. But this—this might be the biggest. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
“Thank you, and God bless.”
Impact and Reaction:
The donation is expected to directly support over 50,000 individuals nationwide through shelter access, meals, and critical services. Social media erupted with praise, with fans and fellow athletes hailing Alonso as a role model not just in sports, but in humanity.
Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams both issued statements applauding Alonso’s generosity, calling it “a game-changing example of compassion and civic leadership.”
Pete Alonso’s legacy just hit a grand slam—and this time, it’s far beyond the ballpark.
