An Open Letter Purdue basketball Star Zack Edey Donates $17 Million to Convert Historic House into Homeless Shelter May 13, 2025 | …
An Open Letter: Zack Edey Donates $17 Million to Convert Historic House into Homeless Shelter
May 13, 2025 | West Lafayette, IN
To My Boilermaker Family, the People of Indiana, and Everyone Who’s Believed in Me —
Today, I want to share something that means more to me than any trophy, any title, or even any NBA dream. I’ve made the decision to donate $17 million to transform a historic house near Purdue University into a fully-operational shelter and community resource center for homeless youth. This isn’t about publicity. This is about people. About giving back to a place and community that helped shape the man I’ve become.
This open letter isn’t just a statement — it’s a thank you, a promise, and a call to action.
Why I’m Doing This
When I first arrived at Purdue, I was just a tall kid from Toronto trying to find his place in the world. I didn’t grow up with much, and like many others, I’ve seen what struggle looks like — not just financial, but emotional and spiritual too. I’ve met kids who aged out of the foster system with nowhere to go. I’ve talked with students who slept in their cars, worked two jobs, and still showed up for class the next morning.
Every time I saw that kind of fight, I felt it deep in my chest. That’s not how it should be. Nobody — especially not a kid — should have to choose between survival and hope.
That’s why I’m taking action. Not someday. Now.
The Vision: A Home with History and a Future
The building itself is over a century old — a beautiful piece of Indiana history. But too often, historic places become forgotten relics. We’re changing that. With this donation, the house will be fully renovated and transformed into a state-of-the-art shelter and support center, including:
- Housing for up to 40 youth at a time
- On-site counselors and mental health professionals
- Life-skills training and job readiness programs
- Access to education, tutoring, and mentorship
- A full kitchen, rec center, and garden space
The shelter will be called “EDEY House: Elevate, Dream, Empower Youth.” That name isn’t about me — it’s about them. It’s about giving kids a place to rise.
A Thank You to Purdue and Indiana
Purdue gave me more than an education and a platform — it gave me a second home. It gave me teammates who became brothers, coaches who believed in me, and fans who never stopped cheering, even on our worst nights. To the students, faculty, and alumni — thank you. To the West Lafayette community — thank you. To the young people I’ve met on campus who are just trying to make it — this is for you.
And to Coach Matt Painter — you showed me what integrity looks like in every practice and press conference. Your guidance helped shape this decision, and I’ll carry your lessons long after I leave the court.
To My Fans and Supporters
I’ve been blessed to hear cheers from arenas across the country, but I want to use that voice for more than just basketball. If you’re reading this and wondering how you can help — you don’t need $17 million to make a difference. Volunteer. Donate clothes. Mentor a kid. Make someone feel seen. Because what we do for others is what defines us.
This shelter is just the beginning. I want to challenge every athlete, every student, every alum to think bigger than stats or status. Think about the legacy we leave behind — not just in the record books, but in the lives we touch.
What’s Next
Construction on EDEY House will begin this summer, with a grand opening scheduled for Fall 2026. We’re partnering with local non-profits, community leaders, and housing experts to ensure this space becomes a model for what shelters can and should be. I’ll continue to be involved in its growth, even as I pursue my professional career.
This is a long-term commitment. Not just to build a place, but to build a future.
Final Words: From My Heart to Yours
As I get ready to turn the page to the next chapter in my life — the NBA or wherever the road leads — I’m taking everything Purdue taught me with me. This community gave me purpose, pride, and a platform. Now it’s my turn to give something back that lasts.
“Greatness isn’t measured by how high you rise, but by how many people you bring with you.”
I’m bringing as many as I can.
With all my respect, love, and gratitude —
Zack Edey
Purdue Boilermaker, Class of 2025
