In a groundbreaking act of compassion and civic responsibility, Houston Rockets rising star Amen Thompson has announced a personal
investment of $8.5 million to convert a historic mansion in downtown Houston into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth.
The 21-year-old NBA standout revealed his plans at a press conference held at the property on Friday morning, flanked by city officials, community leaders, and representatives from several youth advocacy organizations. The new facility, which will be named “Thompson House,” is set to open its doors later this year and aims to provide not just temporary housing, but also access to counseling, education, healthcare, and job training programs.
“This isn’t charity — this is a responsibility,” Thompson said during the announcement. “Growing up, I saw too many kids my age fall through the cracks. I’ve been blessed with a platform and resources, and I want to use them to build a future where no young person has to sleep on the street.”
The three-story estate, once a private residence, will undergo a full renovation to include dormitories, recreational areas, classrooms, therapy spaces, and a full kitchen staffed by professionals and volunteers. Partnering with local nonprofits, the shelter will prioritize teens and young adults aged 16 to 24, a demographic particularly vulnerable to homelessness in the Houston area.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner praised Thompson’s initiative, calling it a “transformational moment for the city.” He added, “It’s rare to see someone so young make such a profound and lasting commitment to his community. Amen Thompson is not just making plays on the court — he’s making a difference where it counts most.”
Thompson, who was drafted fourth overall by the Rockets in 2023, has quickly become a fan favorite not only for his athleticism and poise on the court, but also for his community-first mindset. In 2024, he launched the Thompson Foundation, which focuses on youth empowerment, mental health support, and education reform.
Construction on the Thompson