BREAKING NEWS: 49ers Star Fred Warner Pledges $5 Million to Combat Homelessness in San Francisco
San Francisco, CA – September 24, 2025 – In a groundbreaking act of generosity, San Francisco 49ers star quarterback Fred Warner has pledged $5 million from his latest sponsorship deals to combat homelessness in the Bay Area. The NFL standout announced on Wednesday that his donation will directly fund the construction of 100 permanent housing units and 200 emergency shelter beds for individuals and families experiencing homelessness across San Francisco.
Warner, known for his leadership both on and off the field, made the announcement during an emotional press conference held outside Levi’s Stadium. Flanked by community leaders, team representatives, and local officials, he addressed the growing crisis of homelessness in the city — a problem that has plagued San Francisco for years.
“This city has given me everything — my career, my fans, and the incredible opportunity to represent the 49ers every Sunday,” Warner said, his voice breaking with emotion. “But when I walk through San Francisco and see people struggling just to survive, I can’t stand by and do nothing. This isn’t about football. It’s about humanity. It’s about dignity. Everyone deserves a safe place to sleep at night.”
The initiative, officially titled “Project Safe Haven,” will be developed in partnership with the San Francisco Housing Authority and several local nonprofit organizations. According to officials, the first phase of construction is scheduled to begin later this year, with the initial housing units expected to open by mid-2026.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed praised Warner’s commitment, calling it “a monumental step forward” in addressing one of the city’s most pressing challenges.
“Fred Warner is not just a superstar athlete; he’s a superstar human being,” Breed said. “Homelessness has been an issue that has deeply affected our community for far too long. With this contribution, we can provide stability, hope, and a future for hundreds of individuals who desperately need it. Fred’s leadership is an example for the entire nation.”
Warner revealed that his decision to get involved was inspired by a personal encounter earlier this year. After a 49ers practice session, he met a young man named Marcus living on the streets near the stadium. Marcus, a lifelong 49ers fan, shared his story of losing his job during the pandemic and being unable to afford rent as housing prices skyrocketed.
“That conversation never left me,” Warner explained. “Marcus told me he used to watch our games with his dad every Sunday, and now he’s out here just trying to survive. It broke my heart. That was the moment I knew I had to do something bigger than football.”
Beyond the initial $5 million pledge, Warner has also committed to leveraging his network of sponsors and NFL connections to raise additional funds. Early reports suggest that several major brands have already expressed interest in joining the effort, which could potentially double the size of the project.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan applauded Warner’s actions, noting that his quarterback’s impact extends far beyond the field.
“Fred has always been a leader in our locker room,” Shanahan said. “But what he’s doing here shows the kind of man he is. He’s using his platform to bring real change to people who need it most. We’re all incredibly proud of him.”
The announcement comes as the 49ers prepare for a highly anticipated matchup this Sunday, but Warner made it clear that his mind is on more than just football.
“Football is what I do, but it’s not who I am,” he said. “At the end of the day, I want to be remembered for how I treated people and the difference I made. Winning a Super Bowl would be amazing, but helping to change lives? That’s something that lasts forever.”
Community organizers say the project could have ripple effects throughout the Bay Area, potentially inspiring other athletes, corporations, and local leaders to take action.
As the press conference concluded, Warner received a standing ovation from those in attendance. Many fans in the crowd wore his jersey, cheering not just for his athletic prowess, but for his compassion and courage.
“Fred Warner gave us something to believe in today,” said Maria Lopez, director of a local homeless outreach program. “He’s showing us that heroes don’t just play on the field — they step up when their community needs them most.”
With construction plans underway and momentum building, Warner’s bold pledge may mark a turning point in San Francisco’s battle against homelessness — a fight that, thanks to his leadership, now has a powerful new champion.
