BREAKING NEWS: Florida Panthers Right Wing Brad Marchand Invests $8.5 Million to Transform House into Shelter for Homeless Youth in…..

In a powerful gesture of compassion and leadership, Florida Panthers right wing Brad Marchand has announced a personal investment of $8.5 million to convert a historic Miami property into a modern shelter and resource center for homeless youth.

The 37-year-old NHL veteran, known for his gritty play on the ice and fierce competitiveness, showed a different side during a press conference on Thursday afternoon, standing in front of the three-story Mediterranean-style building that will soon become The Resilience House — a safe haven for youth facing homelessness and instability in South Florida.

“Off the ice, we all have a responsibility to do more,” said Marchand. “Too many kids in this city are just trying to survive day to day. This is about giving them the stability, support, and dignity they deserve.”

A Shift in Focus — From Hockey to Humanity

Marchand, who joined the Panthers in a blockbuster trade from the Boston Bruins in 2024, has embraced his new role in Florida both as a player and a community leader. While his on-ice reputation has often been polarizing, this philanthropic initiative highlights a lesser-known side of the veteran forward — one deeply committed to social impact.

According to the Miami-Dade Homeless Trust, over 1,000 unaccompanied youth are estimated to experience homelessness in the region each year. Many come from backgrounds of abuse, neglect, or systemic poverty and often fall through the cracks of traditional support systems.

“This shelter isn’t about charity,” Marchand said. “It’s about giving young people the tools and resources to build their own futures.”

What The Resilience House Will Offer

The facility will be operated in partnership with Lotus House, a Miami-based nonprofit specializing in services for homeless women and youth. Marchand’s foundation, newly formed under the name Stick Up for Youth, will provide ongoing funding, mentorship programs, and additional wraparound services.

“Brad has been hands-on from day one,” said Lotus House founder Constance Collins. “He’s sat with our team, listened to our youth, and is 100% committed to making this space something truly transformational.”

Community Applause and NHL Praise

The announcement has been met with widespread praise across the hockey world and South Florida.

Panthers General Manager Bill Zito applauded Marchand’s leadership. “This is why we brought him in — not just to win games, but to build a culture. What Brad is doing off the ice is just as powerful as what he does on it.”

Fans took to social media with messages of respect and admiration, many noting that Marchand — once considered one of hockey’s most controversial players — is evolving into one of its most impactful leaders.

More Than a One-Time Project

Marchand said he views The Resilience House as a model for similar shelters in other NHL cities and hopes to encourage fellow players to invest in their own communities.

“Look, I’ve had my moments in my career,” he said with a grin. “But if I can use my platform now to lift someone else up, especially a kid who’s been forgotten — that means more than any goal I’ve ever scored.”