BREAKING: Seiya Suzuki and the entire Chicago Cubs team donated $6.1 million to turn a house into a shelter for homeless youth in South Bend, Indiana — head coach Craig Counsell’s hometown — as a heartfelt tribute to everything he has given them…

Chicago Cubs and Seiya Suzuki Donate $6.1 Million to Create Homeless Youth Shelter in South Bend, Indiana

In a heartwarming display of gratitude and community spirit, the Chicago Cubs, led by star outfielder Seiya Suzuki, have donated an astounding $6.1 million to transform a house in South Bend, Indiana, into a shelter for homeless youth. This generous initiative is a tribute to their manager, Craig Counsell, who hails from South Bend, and reflects the team’s commitment to giving back to the community that shaped their leader. The project aims to provide a safe haven for vulnerable youth, offering them shelter, support, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.

A Tribute to Craig Counsell’s Legacy

Craig Counsell, the Chicago Cubs’ manager since November 2023, has been a transformative figure for the team. Known for his strategic brilliance and leadership, Counsell has guided the Cubs through a competitive 2025 season, fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork. His deep ties to South Bend, where he was born and raised, have inspired the Cubs to honor him in a meaningful way.

Seiya Suzuki, the team’s designated hitter and one of its most prominent stars, spearheaded the initiative. “Craig has given us so much—his wisdom, his passion, and his heart,” Suzuki said through his interpreter, Edwin Stanberry. “This donation is our way of saying thank you and giving back to the community that made him who he is.” The $6.1 million donation, contributed by Suzuki and the entire Cubs roster, will fund the renovation of a large property in South Bend, turning it into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth.

The Vision for the South Bend Youth Shelter

The shelter, tentatively named the “Counsell Community Haven,” will provide comprehensive support for homeless youth aged 12 to 24. The facility will include:

• Safe Housing: Dormitory-style rooms to accommodate up to 50 individuals, offering a secure and comfortable environment.

• Educational Programs: On-site tutoring, GED preparation, and vocational training to empower youth with skills for future success.

• Mental Health Services: Access to counselors and therapists to address trauma and mental health challenges.

• Recreational Facilities: A gym, art studio, and outdoor space to promote physical and emotional well-being.

• Career Support: Job placement services and internships to help residents transition to independent living.

The project is expected to break ground in early 2026, with completion slated for late 2027. Local organizations, including the South Bend Community Foundation and Youth Service Bureau of St. Joseph County, will partner with the Cubs to manage the shelter’s operations and ensure its long-term sustainability.