Good news:In a move that has stunned both the sports and philanthropic worlds, Jesse and Emily Cole, the charismatic owners of the Savannah Bananas baseball team, announced on Friday that they are donating the entirety of their recent $12.9 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund the construction of homeless support centers in Chicago, Illinois, and Rancho Cucamonga, California….
Savannah Bananas Owners Jesse and Emily Cole Donate $12.9 Million to Build Homeless Support Centers in Chicago and Rancho .
In a move that has stunned both the sports and philanthropic worlds, Jesse and Emily Cole, the charismatic owners of the Savannah Bananas baseball team, announced on Friday that they are donating the entirety of their recent $12.9 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund the construction of homeless support centers in Chicago, Illinois, and Rancho Cucamonga, California.
The initiative, which has already been hailed as one of the largest charitable commitments made by team owners in modern minor league and entertainment-based sports, will include the development of 150 permanent housing units and 300 shelter beds dedicated to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Speaking at an emotional press conference, the Coles emphasized that their decision stemmed from a deeply personal commitment to helping those most vulnerable. โI have witnessed people struggling to survive the harsh winters in the U.S. without a roof over their heads,โ Jesse Cole said, his voice cracking with emotion. โI promised myself that if I ever had the chance, I would step up. No one should have to sleep outside in that kind of cold.โ Emily Cole echoed the sentiment, adding, โThis is about dignity, humanity, and creating opportunities for people to rebuild their lives. Baseball has given us so much joy, and now we want to use that platform to make a real difference.โ
A Broader Vision of Community Impact
The Savannah Bananas, known globally for revolutionizing baseball through their viral โBanana Ballโ brand of entertainment, have often spoken about their mission being far larger than just the sport. This latest effort reflects their philosophy of using their success not just to entertain, but also to uplift.
According to the couple, the two support centers will go beyond just offering shelter. Each facility will include career training programs, mental health services, addiction recovery support, and educational workshops designed to give residents the tools they need to transition to long-term stability. Local organizations in both Chicago and Rancho Cucamonga will partner with the initiative to ensure that the programs are deeply connected to each cityโs existing network of social services.
Reactions Pour In
News of the donation spread rapidly across social media, with fans, civic leaders, and athletes praising the Coles for their bold commitment. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement calling the contribution โa landmark moment for our cityโs fight against homelessnessโ and promised to work with the Bananasโ ownership group to ensure the facilities are constructed efficiently and sustainably. Rancho Cucamonga officials expressed similar gratitude, with City Councilmember Lynne Kennedy remarking that โthis project will change lives in our community for generations.โ
Former and current Bananas players also weighed in, with several sharing personal stories about their experiences with homelessness in their families or communities. โThe Coles always tell us itโs about more than baseball, and today they proved it,โ said Dakota โStiltsโ Albritton, one of the teamโs most recognizable stars.
An Example for the Sports World
The move stands out in an era when sports franchises and their owners are often criticized for prioritizing profits over community welfare. By donating an entire bonus package rather than pocketing it, Jesse and Emily Cole have set a new example for what socially responsible ownership can look like.
Sports analysts suggest that the decision could spark a wave of similar initiatives, especially among owners of entertainment-driven franchises that rely heavily on fan engagement and goodwill. โThe Coles are rewriting not just baseball culture but also ownership culture,โ said Dr. Samuel Hayes, a sports management professor at Northwestern University. โTheyโre showing that success and generosity donโt have to be mutually exclusive.โ
What Comes Next
Construction on the Chicago facility is expected to begin in early 2026, with doors opening by late 2027. The Rancho Cucamonga center is projected to follow soon after, with plans to be fully operational by 2028. The Coles confirmed they will remain directly involved throughout the process, ensuring the centers reflect their vision of long-term, holistic support.
When asked if this meant more projects of this scale were coming, Jesse Cole smiled. โThis is only the beginning. The Bananas are about joy, community, and hope. Weโre going to keep finding ways to share that beyond the ballpark.โ
As the news reverberates across the nation, one thing is clear: the Savannah Bananasโ legacy is no longer confined to viral videos and packed stadiums. With this unprecedented act of generosity, Jesse and Emily Cole have stepped into a new roleโnot just as innovators of baseball, but as champions of humanity.
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