In a powerful act of compassion and commitment to community, Tampa Bay Rays infielder Ha-Seong Kim has quietly invested $2.6 million to transform a large residential property in St. Petersburg, Florida into a living facility for homeless youth.
The project, which has been in development for nearly a year, is being hailed as one of the most impactful charitable efforts by a professional athlete in recent memory. Slated to open later this summer, the facility — tentatively named “The Safe Base” — will provide housing, educational resources, mental health support, and job training for up to 30 youth between the ages of 14 and 21.
“Everyone Deserves a Safe Place to Grow”
In a rare personal statement shared through the Rays’ official social media channels, Kim explained what inspired the initiative.
“Baseball has given me so much, but not everyone starts on third base in life. Some kids are out there trying to survive day by day — not knowing where they’ll sleep, or if anyone even sees them. This is about giving them a safe base. A chance to dream again.”
Kim, 29, has earned widespread respect in MLB not just for his versatile play and defensive brilliance, but for his humility and deep sense of purpose off the field. This latest move further cements his reputation as more than just a baseball star — but a leader in humanitarian efforts as well.
A Vision Years in the Making
According to project coordinator Maria Alston, Kim had been quietly visiting shelters and speaking with outreach workers in Tampa Bay since his first season with the team.
“He didn’t just write a check,” Alston said. “He listened. He asked questions. He showed up. This isn’t a PR move — this is personal to him.”
The home, formerly a 10-bedroom estate, is currently undergoing renovations to include shared and private rooms, counseling spaces, and a community kitchen. Local nonprofits and city officials are working in partnership with Kim’s foundation to staff and operate the facility sustainably.
Rays Organization Applauds the Move
Rays manager Kevin Cash was emotional when asked about Kim’s project during a press conference earlier today.
“Ha-Seong is the kind of guy every clubhouse hopes for. This goes beyond baseball — this is about heart. What he’s doing will change lives.”
Team owner Stu Sternberg also released a statement praising Kim for “leading by example” and called the initiative “a transformative moment for our community.”
MLB Players React
Word spread quickly across the league, with fellow players taking to social media to show love and admiration.
“That’s next-level,” tweeted Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge. “Salute to Ha-Seong for being the change.”
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani simply posted: “Respect. That’s leadership.”
More Than a Game
With this gesture, Ha-Seong Kim is proving that while his glove may save runs, his heart might just save futures.
As the Rays push for another playoff run this season, fans in Tampa Bay know they’ve got more than just a stellar infielder in Kim — they’ve got a community hero.
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