BREAKING NEWS: Jaylen Wells of the Memphis Grizzlies Invests $5.2 Million to Create Shelter for Homeless Youth in Tennessee
Memphis, TN — In a powerful act of generosity and community leadership, Jaylen Wells, a rising star with the Memphis Grizzlies, has invested $5.2 million of his personal wealth to transform a historic house in downtown Memphis into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth. The initiative, which Wells calls The Wells Haven Project, aims to provide not just housing, but also resources and support systems to help young people rebuild their lives.
Wells made the announcement earlier today during an emotional press conference held at the future site of the shelter. “This isn’t about basketball. It’s about using the platform I’ve been blessed with to make a difference where it matters most,” Wells said. “Too many kids in our community are sleeping on the streets or in unsafe environments. They deserve a chance—hope, dignity, and support—and that’s what this place will give them.”
The shelter, which is expected to open its doors in early 2026, will offer a range of services including temporary housing, counseling, educational support, vocational training, and healthcare access. The facility will also partner with local schools, clinics, and job training centers to ensure a holistic approach to recovery and reintegration. The historic home will be expanded and renovated to include dormitory-style living quarters, common areas, and private counseling rooms.
Jaylen Wells, 23, has been known for his commitment to social justice and youth empowerment since joining the NBA. Drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2023, he quickly became a fan favorite not only for his athleticism but also for his character off the court. In 2024, he launched a nonprofit called Rooted in Change, dedicated to youth development and community building across Tennessee.
The inspiration behind the project, Wells revealed, came from his own upbringing. “I know what it’s like to feel like the odds are stacked against you,” he said, referencing his own experiences with poverty and unstable housing as a teen. “I had people who believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. This shelter is my way of paying that forward.”
Community leaders, including Memphis Mayor Paul Young and representatives from local youth organizations, praised Wells for his bold investment and vision. “Jaylen’s commitment is more than a financial contribution—it’s a call to action,” said Mayor Young. “He is setting a new standard for what it means to be a civic leader in Memphis.”
As construction begins later this summer, Wells is calling on fellow athletes, business owners, and community members to join him in the effort. “We’re building more than a shelter—we’re building a future,” he said. “And I hope others will see the impact this can have and come alongside us.”
