BREAKING NEWS: Savannah Bananas Owners Jesse and Emily Cole Donate $12.9 Million to Build Homeless Support Centers in U.S.
Savannah Bananas owners Jesse and Emily Cole have announced a groundbreaking philanthropic effort, pledging their entire $12.9 million in recent bonus and sponsorship earnings to help combat homelessness in the United States.
At a press conference on Thursday, the Coles revealed plans to fund the construction of two state-of-the-art homeless support centers — one in Chicago, Illinois, and another in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Together, the facilities will provide 150 permanent housing units and 300 shelter beds, along with access to meals, medical care, counseling, and job training services.
The initiative, which is expected to break ground early next year, aims to provide both immediate relief and long-term solutions for vulnerable populations in two regions hit hard by housing insecurity.
Jesse Cole, wearing his trademark yellow tuxedo, grew emotional as he spoke about the inspiration behind the donation. “I have witnessed 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. “No one should have to sleep outside in that kind of cold.”
Emily Cole echoed the sentiment, adding: “This is about dignity, compassion, and action. Our hope is that these centers become places of safety and opportunity for those who need it most.”
The announcement was met with widespread praise, both from civic leaders and fans of the Bananas, who have come to know the Coles for their “Fans First” philosophy and innovative approach to baseball entertainment. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson called the donation “a beacon of hope at a time when housing crises continue to challenge our cities,” while officials in Rancho Cucamonga said the project could serve as a model for other municipalities.
This latest effort marks a significant expansion of the Coles’ charitable work, highlighting how the success of the Savannah Bananas has grown into something far beyond the baseball diamond.
Construction on the centers is expected to begin in spring 2026, with openings projected for late 2027.
