Breaking News: Ohio State Head Football Coach Ryan Day Invests $5 Million to Transform House into Shelter for Homeless Youth in Ohio
In a remarkable act of generosity and social responsibility, Ohio State University head football coach Ryan Day has announced a personal investment of $5 million to convert a historic home in Columbus, Ohio into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth. The facility, which is expected to open in early 2026, will provide housing, educational support, and mental health services to vulnerable young people across the state.
Coach Day, who has long been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and youth support services, said the initiative is a deeply personal mission. “There are so many kids out there facing challenges no one should ever have to face—abuse, neglect, homelessness,” Day stated. “Football is my profession, but helping young people find stability and hope is my purpose.”
The shelter, to be named The Day House, will accommodate up to 40 youth at a time and will operate in partnership with local nonprofits and mental health professionals. Services will include trauma-informed care, educational programming, job training, and mentorship opportunities. The goal is not only to provide a safe place to sleep but also to equip residents with the tools to build sustainable, independent lives.
The $5 million donation will fund both the renovation of the property and the first several years of operational costs. The home being transformed is a 1920s-era building located near downtown Columbus. It has been vacant for several years and was chosen due to its central location and capacity for renovation.
University officials and city leaders have praised Day’s contribution as a powerful example of leadership off the field. “Coach Day is setting a standard not just in athletics, but in compassion and community commitment,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther.
This isn’t Day’s first foray into philanthropy. He and his wife Christina co-founded The Christina and Ryan Day Fund for Pediatric and Adolescent Mental Wellness in 2020, which supports behavioral health initiatives at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
With this latest endeavor, Ryan Day is cementing his legacy not only as a successful coach but also as a transformative force for good in the Ohio community. As he put it, “We measure wins on the field, but this is about winning in life—for kids who deserve every chance
to succeed.”
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