BREAKING NEWS: Lucy Olsen of the iowa hawkeyes has invested $3.6 million to transform a house into a shelter for homeless youth in iowa city after……
In an inspiring act of compassion and leadership, Lucy Olsen, a prominent athlete from the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team, has made headlines by investing $3.6 million to convert a large residential property into a shelter for homeless youth in Iowa City
. This unprecedented move demonstrates not only her commitment to community service but also her desire to leverage her platform for meaningful, lasting change.
The shelter, which will be named “Lucy’s Haven,” is set to open its doors later this year. The facility will provide safe housing, nutritious meals, mental health support, education resources, and job training programs for youth experiencing homelessness across Johnson County. According to sources close to the project, Olsen has been personally involved in the planning and vision for the shelter, working with local social workers, nonprofits, and city officials to ensure that the facility meets the most pressing needs of the community.
Lucy Olsen, a standout player known for her leadership on the court and dedication off of it, said during a press conference, “Basketball has given me so much—discipline, opportunity, and a voice. I believe it’s my responsibility to use that voice to help others. Too many young people in our community face nights without a roof, without food, without hope. I want to be part of changing that.”
The $3.6 million investment covers not just the purchase and renovation of the property, but also initial staffing, program development, and ongoing operational costs for the shelter’s first two years. Olsen has also partnered with several Iowa-based organizations, including the Iowa Youth Alliance and Shelter4Hope, to ensure the shelter is staffed with experienced professionals who can provide trauma-informed care and mentorship.
University of Iowa officials praised Olsen’s decision, with Athletic Director Beth Goetz calling it “a reflection of the values we strive to instill in all our student-athletes.” Community members have also responded with an outpouring of support and gratitude, with many local leaders saying that Olsen’s action sets a new bar for student-athlete activism.
As Lucy Olsen continues to shine on the court, it is her work off the court that may have the most lasting impact. “Lucy’s Haven” stands as a testament to what one individual with purpose and heart can accomplish.
