BREAKING: Savannah Bananas Owners Jesse and Emily Cole Donate $12.9 Million to Build Homeless Care Centers in Rancho Cucamonga and Chicago
In a groundbreaking act of philanthropy, Jesse and Emily Cole, the visionary owners of the wildly popular Savannah Bananas baseball team, have announced the donation of their entire $12.9 million in bonus and sponsorship revenues toward the construction of homeless care centers in two major U.S. cities—Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Chicago, Illinois.
The initiative, unveiled at a press conference on Friday, will fund the development of 300 shelter beds and 150 permanent housing units, providing essential relief for individuals and families struggling with homelessness. The project aims not only to offer immediate shelter but also to provide long-term solutions for those caught in cycles of poverty and displacement.
Speaking with deep emotion, Jesse Cole reflected on the inspiration behind this significant contribution. “I have seen people struggling to survive the harsh winters in the U.S. without a roof over their heads, and I promised myself that if I ever had the chance, I would step up,” he said. Emily Cole echoed his sentiment, adding, “It should not be necessary for anyone to sleep outside in such extreme cold. We have a responsibility to use our blessings to make life better for others.”
The Coles, best known for transforming the Savannah Bananas into a cultural and entertainment phenomenon through their innovative approach to baseball, are now channeling their influence toward a social cause close to their hearts. Their commitment comes at a time when homelessness rates across the U.S. have surged, with both Chicago and California facing some of the most severe challenges.
City officials from Rancho Cucamonga and Chicago praised the initiative, emphasizing the potential impact such facilities will have on vulnerable communities. Plans for the centers include not just shelter beds and housing but also access to healthcare services, job placement programs, and mental health support—creating a holistic approach to breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Fans of the Savannah Bananas, who have long admired the Coles for their creativity and generosity, have flooded social media with praise. Many noted that this step demonstrates that the team’s leadership extends beyond entertainment, highlighting a deep commitment to community well-being.
Construction is expected to begin within the next year, with both centers projected to open by late 2026. For Jesse and Emily Cole, this marks just the beginning of what they hope will become a broader movement. As Jesse concluded during the announcement: “Baseball has given us a platform. Now, it’s time to use it to change lives.”