In a stunning act of generosity, former Colorado Avalanche superstar and current President of Hockey Operations, Joe Sakic, has donated the entirety of his $85 million in bonuses and past sponsorship earnings to a groundbreaking initiative aimed at combating homelessness in Colorado.
The initiative, titled “Sakic Shelter & Support Project,” will directly fund the development of 150 permanent housing units along with 300 emergency shelter beds across the Denver metro area. The facilities will also include wraparound services such as mental health support, job training, and substance recovery programs.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Sakic said during an emotional press conference Monday morning. “I knew that if I was ever in a position to make real change, I had to do something meaningful. This isn’t charity — it’s about justice, dignity, and making sure everyone has a shot.”
The funding will be managed through a public-private partnership in conjunction with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and non-profit housing developers like the Urban Peak Collaborative and HomeAid Colorado. Construction is set to begin early next spring, with the first phase of housing expected to open by late 2026.
Sakic, a Hall of Famer known for his quiet leadership and clutch playoff performances, was praised for once again leading by example.
“Joe’s always had heart — on and off the ice,” said longtime teammate and friend Peter Forsberg. “But this… this is next-level. He’s changing lives.”
When asked why he chose to donate the entire $85 million — a figure consisting of decades’ worth of endorsement deals with brands like Nike, CCM, and Tim Hortons — Sakic didn’t hesitate.
“You can’t take it with you. But you can use it to give someone else a better shot at life.”
Local officials confirmed that Sakic declined naming rights for any of the buildings, requesting instead that the shelters honor “the resilience and courage of those who have fought to survive on the streets.”
This act places Sakic among the most generous athletes in North American sports history, drawing comparisons to philanthropic icons such as LeBron James and Dikembe Mutombo.
The Avalanche organization released a statement calling Sakic’s donation “the embodiment of true leadership.”
As the news spread, fans gathered outside Ball Arena holding handmade signs reading “Thank You, Joe!” and “Captain for Life.”
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