Dylan Edwards Donates $4.5 Million to Convert Historic Home into Shelter for Homeless Youth in Kansas
In a powerful gesture that has stunned the college football world and inspired a community, Kansas State Wildcats’ star running back Dylan Edwards has donated $4.5 million to convert a historic Victorian-era mansion into a state-of-the-art shelter for homeless youth in Kansas.
At just 20 years old, Edwards, known for his explosive speed and game-changing plays on the field, has now become a game-changer off it. The donation—the largest ever made by a student-athlete in Kansas State’s history—will fund the complete renovation and operation of the 8,500-square-foot home located just three blocks from campus.
“This is bigger than football,” Edwards said at a press conference held in front of the ivy-draped, weathered house. “I’ve been blessed with a platform and the resources. Now I’m using them to make sure the kids who never had a chance get one.”
The house, built in 1896 and once slated for demolition, will be transformed into The Edwards House, a trauma-informed youth shelter offering 24/7 housing, mental health services, educational support, and vocational training. The project is being undertaken in partnership with local nonprofit Bridges Forward, a Kansas-based organization that supports at-risk youth.
“The moment Dylan walked into our offices with this vision, we were speechless,” said Andrea Lomas, executive director of Bridges Forward. “He had already consulted with architects, social workers, and contractors. This wasn’t a celebrity write-off—this was a mission.”
Born in Derby, Kansas, Edwards rose from modest beginnings and has spoken candidly about friends and family members who struggled with housing insecurity. His deeply personal connection to the issue adds a layer of urgency and authenticity to the initiative.
The Edwards House will accommodate up to 30 young people, ages 14 to 20, and include features such as a communal kitchen, art and music therapy rooms, a tech learning lab, and private counseling suites. Construction is set to begin in late August, with a grand opening planned for spring 2026.
Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman called the donation “the single most remarkable act of leadership I’ve witnessed in college athletics.” Teammates echoed the sentiment, with junior quarterback Jalen Norris adding, “Dylan’s not just making plays—he’s making a legacy.”
Edwards, projected to be an early-round NFL Draft pick, said he intends to stay closely involved with the shelter even after leaving for the league. “This isn’t a one-time deal. This is my promise,” he said.
As the press conference wrapped up, a group of local teens gathered behind a banner that read, “Thank You Dylan.” A few of them will likely be among the first to call The Edwards House home.
With this bold step, Edwards has redefined what it means to be a student-athlete in the NIL era—showing that true greatness is measured not in yards gained, but lives changed.
