Following a deeply personal and tragic incident involving a former player’s family, Dawn Staley, the esteemed Head Coach of South Carolina Women’s Basketball, has taken a monumental step toward addressing youth homelessness in South Carolina. She has invested $3.6 million of her own funds into converting a large residential property into a fully functional shelter for destitute and at-risk youth.
Named “The Dawn House,” the facility will serve as a safe haven offering not just shelter, but also access to education, mental health support, and life-skills training. Staley, known not only for her basketball acumen but also her commitment to social justice and community upliftment, described the project as a “mission of the heart.” She was reportedly moved to action after witnessing the challenges faced by several young people close to her program, including one former player whose sibling tragically died while living on the streets.
The shelter, slated to open in early 2026, is designed to accommodate up to 40 youth at a time and will partner with local nonprofits and government agencies to provide long-term solutions for homelessness. Staley’s initiative marks a significant investment in the future of South Carolina’s most vulnerable populations, extending her leadership far beyond the basketball court.
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