**BREAKING NEWS: Penrith Panthers Star Nathan Cleary Donates \$7.5 Million to Create Homeless Youth Shelter**
Penrith Panthers halfback and NRL superstar Nathan Cleary has stunned fans and community members alike with an extraordinary act of generosity, investing \$7.5 million to convert his personal property into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth in Western Sydney.
In a heartfelt statement released this morning, Cleary said the initiative was inspired by the growing number of young people he sees struggling with housing insecurity. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my life, and I feel a deep responsibility to give back—especially to young people who just need a chance,” Cleary said. “This isn’t about charity. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and hope.”
The new facility, located on the outskirts of Penrith, will include emergency housing, long-term accommodation units, mental health support, education and job training programs, and 24/7 on-site care. The project is being developed in partnership with Mission Australia and local youth services, ensuring the shelter meets the specific needs of the region.
Cleary’s decision to transform his own property into the shelter, rather than fund a separate development, has been widely praised as a selfless and deeply personal commitment to social change.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo called the move “one of the most significant philanthropic gestures in Australian sport,” adding, “Nathan is setting an example not just for athletes, but for all Australians.”
Construction is set to begin in mid-2025, with the shelter expected to open its doors by early 2026.
This landmark initiative not only highlights Cleary’s leadership on and off the field, but also shines a spotlight on the urgent need for more youth-focused housing solutions across the country.
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